Skeletal class II malocclusion caused by mouth breathing in a pediatric patient undergoing treatment by interceptive guidance of occlusion

A 7-year 10-month-old boy was evaluated for mouth breathing and snoring habits. Examination revealed soft convex tissues, maxillary protrusion, mandibular retrusion, and a class II sagittal osteofascial pattern. The patient failed a water holding test. He was clinically diagnosed with skeletal class II malocclusion caused by mouth breathing. Under interceptive guidance of occlusion (iGo), the malocclusion improved with fixed maxillary expansion using functional appliances and interventional treatment of mouth breathing by lip closure exercises. These treatments enabled the patient to gradually return to nasal breathing and guided him to develop physiological occlusion for a coordinated jaw-to-jaw relation. At the 5-year 2-month post-correction follow-up visit (at the age of 13 years), the patient had stable occlusion, a coordinated osteofascial pattern, and normal dentition, periodontium, and temporomandibular joints.     

Motor control exercises of the lumbar-pelvic region improve respiratory function in obese men. A pilot study

Purpose: Obese subjects have decreased pulmonary function. The hypothesis of our study was that poor coordination of the lumbar-pelvic musculature secondary to obesity may hinder the synergic activation of the respiratory muscles. The aim of the paper was to evaluate whether specific motor control exercises of the lumbar-pelvic musculature were able to improve respiratory function.

Method: Twenty obese male patients underwent a rehabilitation program including adapted physical activity and respiratory physiotherapy. Patients were randomly assigned to a Specific Motor Control Exercise Group (SG) and a Control Group (CG). SG followed a protocol according to the SMARTERehab concept aimed at improving posture, intra-abdominal pressure, rib cage mobility, and perception of correct muscle activation. CG performed an exercise training protocol to improve aerobic capacity and muscle strength.

Result: After intervention, both groups showed similar changes in body weight, fat, and fat-free mass. Respiratory function indexes improved in SG due to improved proprioception and coordination of the deep lumbar-pelvic muscles.

Conclusion: Our study provides preliminary evidence that breathing, postural control, and spinal stability are intertwined. Positive respiratory effects in obese men can be obtained by prescribing specific motor control exercises of the lumbar-pelvic muscles.

• Implications for rehabilitation

• Obese subjects present with decreased pulmonary function and postural changes.

• Poor coordination of the lumbar-pelvic muscles affects posture and the synergic activation of the respiratory muscles.

• Specific motor control exercises of the lumbar-pelvic musculature can improve respiratory function.

• Breathing and postural control are intertwined: positive respiratory effects can be obtained by enhancing motor control of the lumbar-pelvic muscles.

     

Influence of type 1 diabetes on the postural control of women in the third gestational trimester

BackgroundDiabetes can cause biomechanical alterations that may be responsible for additional changes to those existing in a regular gestational period. The way a maternal body responds when affected by diabetes has not been clearly understood. This study aimed to describe the influence of type 1 diabetes on pregnant women's postural control.MethodsForty pregnant women in their third gestational trimester were allocated in two equal groups - the control group and the type 1 diabetic group. The variables related to postural control and balance were assessed using photogrammetry (head protrusion; cervical lordosis; thoracic kyphosis; lumbar lordosis; pelvic anteversion, knee flexion, tibiotarsal and foot inclination angles were measured), and baropodometry (anteroposterior and mediolateral distance trajectory of the center of pressure, amplitude and average speed of displacement of the center of pressure).FindingsThe results of the type 1 diabetic group showed, in the postural analysis, lower head protrusion and pelvic anteversion angles, while there was higher cervical lordosis, thoracic kyphosis, and lumbar lordosis angles. In the baropodometry, the anteroposterior distance and the amplitude of the center of pressure displacement with eyes open and closed were higher.InterpretationThe findings suggest that type 1 diabetes mellitus in the third trimester of pregnancy is associated with postural changes, a decrease in the active ankle range of motion and increase in the anteroposterior oscillation of the center of pressure, with negative repercussions for postural control.     

Activation of the gluteus maximus,gluteus medius and tensor fascia lata muscles during hip internal and external rotation exercises at three hip flexion postures

BackgroundHip internal and external rotation exercises are usually performed in clinical practice. However, given the synergies required to stabilize the hip in the frontal plane, it is not clear how the activation of target muscles will differ between the two exercise directions.ObjectiveI) Compare the activation of the upper and lower fibers of gluteus maximus (GMax), gluteus medius (GMed) and tensor fascia lata muscles between the hip internal and external rotation exercises; ii) Compare the maximal isometric force between hip internal and external rotation exercises and; iii) Assess the effect of varying hip flexion angles on muscle activation and maximal isometric force.Study designA cross sectional study.MethodsElectromyography and force production of twenty-one participants were measured during maximum isometric hip internal and external rotation in three postures: 0°, 45° and 90° of hip flexion.ResultsMANOVA results showed a larger activation of the GMed, tensor fascia lata and upper GMax (p < .001) for hip internal rotation compared to external rotation regardless of hip flexion angle. For the lower GMax, the same was observed when the hip was kept at 90° of flexion. Maximal isometric force during hip external rotation was greater than during hip internal rotation at 0° posture, and lower at 90° posture (p < .001).ConclusionThe gluteus and the tensor fascia lata muscles were substantially recruited during the hip internal rotation exercise, and barely recruited during the hip external rotation exercise. Hip flexion influences the myoeletric activity and isometric force production during the internal rotation exercise.     

Einfluss von Zahnveränderungen auf die Körperhaltung

Background

Alterations in body posture as well as in functional movements have been observed after application of oral devices. This effect has been attributed to the stomatognathic system and is thought to be causally dependent on occlusion. In consequence, occlusion has become the dominant target in dental diagnostics and therapy, although conclusions of investigations have remained controversial for decades.

Hypotheses

However, it is more likely that the alterations in body posture develop from the postural system: the alterations have to be considered as a static restructuring of body posture as a reaction to shifting of a basic indicator of the postural system. This seems to be a reference layer which is elementarily needed for the spatial orientation of the postural system. The length of upper jaw teeth contributes to this reference layer and changes in tooth length will therefore cause an adaptation of body posture. This leads to the assumption that the structures located in the area of the jaws and teeth form the basis not only for stomatognathic function but also for postural function where they are basically needed in processing information for spatial orientation and body posture. Application of oral wafers can also cause the shifting of this postural reference layer and lead to an alteration of body posture.

Results

Dental diagnostics and therapy should benefit from considering the spatial position of the jaw and other body structures in order to prevent unfavorable alterations in posture. Before focusing on occlusion dentists should first aim at finding the optimal position of the postural reference layer in the skull.     

Influence of Body Posture and Apnea Severity on the Tone and Elasticity of Upper Airway Muscles in Awake Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Cross-Sectional Study

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to compare the effect of body posture and apnea severity on the tone, stiffness, and elasticity of upper airway muscles in awake patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS).MethodsEighty adult patients with OSAS from the Sleep Laboratory of the Bitlis State Hospital between April and December 2021 were included in the study. The tone, stiffness, and elasticity of the genioglossus and accessory muscles (sternocleidomastoid, masseter) were measured while the patients were awake, sitting upright, and in supine posture. According to polysomnography results and the Apnea-Hypopnea Index, patients were classified as mild, moderate, or severe OSAS.ResultsThere were 56 male (70%) and 24 female (30%) patients (age 45.0 ± 11.0 years). Tone of genioglossus, masseter, and sternocleidomastoid muscles were higher in supine than in sitting posture (all P < .05). There was no difference in elasticity scores of the bilateral genioglossus muscle in sitting and supine posture (P > .05). The elasticity scores of the sternocleidomastoid and masseter muscles were higher in sitting (all P < .05). An interaction effect of postural change and apnea severity was observed on stiffness scores of the genioglossus muscle (P < .05).ConclusionResults showed that the genioglossus muscle and accessory muscles take on the inspiratory load that develops with postural strain, regardless of the severity of apnea, in awake patients with OSAS. For participants measured in this study, accessory muscles supported respiration by increasing their elasticity.     

Global postural reeducation and static stretching exercises in the treatment of myogenic temporomandibular disorders: a randomized study

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to compare 2 different interventions, global postural reeducation (GPR) and static stretching exercises (SS), in the treatment of women with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs).MethodsA total of 28 subjects with TMDs were randomized into 2 treatment groups: GPR, where therapy involved muscle global chain stretching, or SS, with conventional static stretching; but only 24 completed the study. Eight treatment sessions lasting 40 minutes each (weekly) were performed. Assessments were conducted at baseline, immediately after treatment end, and 2 months later. Measurements included pain intensity at the temporomandibular joint, headache, cervicalgia, teeth clenching, ear symptoms, restricted sleep, and difficulties for mastication, using a visual analogue scale. In addition, electromyographic activity and pain thresholds were measured at the masseter, anterior temporalis, sternocleidomastoid, and upper trapezius muscles. Two-way analysis of variance with Tukey post hoc test was used for between-group comparisons. Significance level was .05.ResultsComparing the pain assessments using the visual analogue scale, no significant differences were seen with the exception of severity of headaches at treatment end (GPR, 3.92 ± 2.98 cm; SS, 1.64 ± 1.66 cm; P < .024). In addition, no significant differences were seen for pain thresholds and for electromyographic activity (P > .05).ConclusionsFor the subjects in this study, both GPR and SS were similarly effective for the treatment of TMDs with muscular component. They equally reduced pain intensity, increased pain thresholds, and decreased electromyographic activity.     

Standing posture and balance modalities in unilateral transfemoral and transtibial amputees

IntroductionLower limb amputation impairs postural performance that could be characterized by biomechanical parameters. This study is to investigate postural performance of persons with transfemoral and transtibial amputation compared to controls without amputation.MethodsEight transtibial, nine transfemoral and twelve able-bodied males participated in this study. Lower limb joints, pelvis and trunk angles were obtained from an optoelectronic motion analysis system to evaluate body posture parameters. The mean, range and speed of the center of pressure (CoP) in both antero-posterior and medio-lateral axes as well as the ellipse area covered by 90% of CoP and free moment were calculated using a single force-plate.Results and discussionDifferences in body posture were only noted between the non-amputee and the transtibial groups. Transtibial amputees leaned more forwardly their trunk by 3.5° compared to able-bodied (p = 0.028). The mean CoP position in transfemoral amputees was closer to the non-amputated side than transtibial amputees (p = 0.034) and as compared to the dominant side in non-amputees (p = 0.042). Factor analysis revealed three postural performance modalities. Non-amputees postural performance was characterized solely by body posture parameters. Transfemoral amputees exclusively favored a modality associated with standing balance parameters, whereas transtibial amputees exhibited a mixed modality comprising a combination of postural and balance parameters.ConclusionThese findings support that the level of amputation is characterized by postural performance modalities different from non-amputees. Clinicians could apply this knowledge as part of their routine rehabilitation program to enhance postural and standing balance assessments in unilateral transfemoral and transtibial amputees.     

Effects of Pilates on the risk of falls,gait, balance and functional mobility in healthy older adults: A randomised controlled trial

ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of Pilates on falls risk, fear of falling, postural balance, functional mobility, spatiotemporal gait parameters, mobility and physical activity in older adults.DesignRandomized Controlled Trial (RCT).MethodsSixty-one older adults, mean age 70.08 (SD = 5.51) were randomly allocated into a Pilates group (PG, n = 29) or control group (CG, n = 32). Intervention comprised a 12-week Pilates program, with exercises performed twice a week and supplementary exercises at home. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA), was used to screen cognition. Primary outcomes: Fear of falling, postural balance (force platform), gait velocity (electronic walkway). Secondary outcomes: Functional mobility, mobility, physical activity, and spatiotemporal parameters of gait. Statistical analysis was carried out using Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE). Covariates were adjusted.ResultsPositive effects were found for time effects: Time Up and Go (TUG), anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) directions of balance, cadence, (stance, step and double support time). The step and double support time showed significant differences between the two groups (p < 0.05). Interaction between time and groups was found for FRT. Age was a significant factor in TUG, FRT, postural balance for AP under open eyes conditions. Health status was significant for ML in eyes open condition. Gait was significant for age, height and health status.ConclusionEffects of 12 weeks of Pilates intervention on functional mobility, mobility, postural balance and spatiotemporal gait parameters were identified. Further trials of a longer duration are warranted to determine the effectiveness of Pilates on falls prevention.     

Electrophysiologic investigation of mandibular nerve injury

Isolated lesions of the mandibular branch of the trigeminal nerve have only rarely been reported. We report the occurrence of an isolated lesion of the mandibular nerve associated with a unilateral mandibular fracture, and its substantiation electrophysiologically. A 65-year-old man was involved in a motor vehicle accident resulting in multiple fractures, including a unilateral mandibular fracture and temporomandibular joint dislocation. No evidence of intracranial pathology by CT scan was noted and the neurologic examination was nonfocal except for dysfunction of the mandibular nerve ipsilateral to the fracture site. Bilateral facial nerve latency and blink reflexes were normal. EMG evaluation of the muscles of facial expression and mastication demonstrated denervation confined to the muscles innervated by the mandibular branch of the trigeminal nerve. In patients complaining of facial sensory dysfunction, malocclusion, or weakness of muscles of mastication after mandibular fracture, an electrophysiologic examination can assist in evaluating cranial nerve integrity.     

An exploration of familial associations in spinal posture defined using a clinical grouping method

The primary aim of this study was to examine familial associations in spinal posture, defined using postural angles and a clinical classification method. A secondary aim was to investigate the reliability of clinical postural classification. Postural angles were calculated from sagittal photographs, while two experienced clinicians made use of standing sagittal images to classify participants into one of four postural groups (sway, flat, hyperlordotic, neutral). Parent–child associations in postural angles and postural groups were evaluated using Pearson’s correlation and Fisher’s exact test, respectively. Inter-rater reliability was expressed using percentage agreement and Kappa coefficients (K). Daughters whose father or mother had a hyperlordotic posture were 4.0 or 3.5 times, respectively, more likely to have a hyperlordotic posture than daughters whose parents did not have a hyperlordotic posture. These participants in the hyperlorotic group had a significantly higher body mass index than members of the other postural groups (p < 0.03). Percentage agreement between clinicians was 63.5% (K = 0.48). These results provide preliminary evidence of a familial association in the hyperlordotic posture and support the use of postural classification.     

Body posture changes in women with migraine with or without temporomandibular disorders

Background

Migraine and temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are reported to be associated. However, there are no reports on the association among migraines, TMDs and changes in body posture.

Objectives

To assess changes in body posture in women suffering migraines with or without TMD compared with a control group.

Method

Sixty-six women with a mean age of 18 to 45 years participated in this study. The groups were composed of 22 volunteers with migraine and TMD (MTMD), 22 volunteers with migraines without TMD (MG) and 22 women in the control group (CG). Static posture was assessed by photogrammetry, and 19 angles were measured.

Results

Postural asymmetry was observed in the face for 4 angles measured on the frontal plane in the MG group and for 4 angles of the trunk in the MG and MTMD groups with respect to CG. However, for comparisons between MTMD and CG, clinical relevance was identified for two angles of the sagittal plane (Cervical and Lumbar Lordosis, Effect Size - ES - moderate: 0.53 and 0.60). For comparisons between the MG and CG, the clinical relevance/potential was verified for three angles with moderate ES (ES>0.42). The clinical relevance when comparing MTMD and CG was identified for four angles of facial symmetry head inclination (ES>0.54) and for two angles between MG and CG (ES>0.48).

Conclusion

The results demonstrated the presence of postural changes compared with a control group in women with migraines with or without TMD, and there were similar clinically relevant postural changes among the patients with migraines with and without TMD.     

The Effect of Relaxation Exercises for the Masticator Muscles on Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD)

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to identify the influence of relaxation exercises for the masticator muscles on the limited ROM and pain of temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD). [Subjects and Methods] The subjects were 10 men and 31 women in their 20s and 30s. They were randomly divided into no treatment, active exercises and relaxation exercise for the masticator muscle groups. The exercise groups performed exercises three times or more a day over a period of four weeks, performing exercise for 10 minutes each time. Before and after the four weeks, all the subjects were measured for ROM, deviation, occlusion, and pain in the temporomandibular joint. [Results] ROM, deviation and pain showed statistically significant in improvements after the intervention in the active exercise and relaxation exercise for the masticator muscle groups. Deviation also showed a statistically significant difference between the active exercise and relaxation exercise groups. [Conclusion] The results verify that as with active exercises, relaxation exercises for the masticatory muscles are an effective treatment for ROM and pain in TMD. Particularly, masticatory muscle relaxation exercises were found to be a treatment that is also effective for deviation.Key words: Masticator muscle, Relaxation exercise, Temporomandibular joint dysfunction     

Effect of the Mandibular Orthopedic Repositioning Appliance on Trunk and Upper Limb Muscle Activation during Maximum Isometric Contraction

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to measure the muscle activities of the trunk muscles and upper limb muscles during maximum isometric contraction when temporomandibular joint alignment was achieved with a mandibular orthopedic repositioning appliance in order provide basic data on the effects of mandibular orthopedic repositioning appliance on the entire body. [Subjects] The present study was conducted with healthy Korean adults in their 20s (males=10, females=10). [Methods] An 8 channel surface electromyography system was used to measure the muscle activities of the upper limb muscles and neck muscles of the subjects during maximum isometric contraction with and without use of a mandibular orthopedic repositioning appliance. [Results] The maximum isometric contractions of the trunk and upper limb muscles when mandibular orthopedic repositioning appliance were used were compared with those when no mandibular orthopedic repositioning appliance was used. The results showed that the sternocleidomastoid muscle, cervical and lumbar erector spinae, upper trapezius, biceps, triceps, rectus abdominis and internal oblique and external oblique muscles all showed significant increases in maximum isometric contractions with a mandibular orthopedic repositioning appliance. [Conclusion] The use of a mandibular orthopedic repositioning appliance is considered to be a method for normal adults to improve the stability of the entire body with the improvement of the stability of the TMJ. The proximal improvement in stability improves of the proximal thereby improving not only muscle strength with increased muscle activation but also stability during exercises.Key words: Electromyography, Maximum isometric contraction, MORA     

Standardization of upper limb exercises to improve radiation therapy for breast cancer,a conceptual literature review

IntroductionMany patients with breast cancer are left with upper arm mobility dysfunction following surgery. Despite the beneficial effects of upper limb exercises on shoulder dysfunction, radiation therapists still do not widely encourage patients to participate in arm exercises after surgery. This conceptual literature review synthesizes evidence on how patients with breast cancer that participate in upper limb exercises after surgery have improved arm mobility which could result in a more consistent arm position during radiation therapy.MethodsA literature search was performed in the PubMed, Athabasca University Library, and Google Scholar databases to identify articles that evaluated the effect of upper limb exercises on patients’ arm mobility and range of motion after breast cancer surgery, and the impact of arm position on anatomy during radiation therapy. Sixteen studies were included in the conceptual review synthesis.ResultsThe studies were heterogeneous in terms of the utilized exercise methods and the upper limb related outcomes measured. Twelve studies demonstrated that upper arm exercises are an effective intervention in restoring arm mobility and decreasing pain in women with breast cancer. Additionally, four studies showed that differences in arm rotation affect the breast region's anatomy, which could result in set-up errors during radiation therapy.ConclusionThe effectiveness of radiation therapy for breast cancer treatment relies on women to reproduce their shoulder position each day. Any inability to replicate the arm position due to mobility issues can affect the accuracy of the dose delivered and, ultimately, the treatment outcome. Therefore, upper limb exercises should be recommended by radiation therapists to their patients before or during radiation therapy to improve patient comfort and the accuracy of treatment. Additionally, upper limb exercise standards need to be developed for patients with breast cancer and implemented by radiation therapists.     

Effect of dynamic tape on postural sway in individuals with chronic ankle instability

ObjectiveTo examine the effects of dynamic tape on balance control in subjects with chronic ankle instability (CAI).MethodsThis two group experimental pre- and post-treatment design included 18 individuals with CAI and 18 controls. The single-limb stance test with eyes open and closed, standing on a force plate (Accusway Plus; AMTI) for 30 s, was conducted before, 10 min (T1) and 24 h (T24) after a dynamic tape application over the gastrocnemius muscle. Outcome measurements were: mean sway velocity, sway area (circular area), and standard deviation of the body center of pressure path length in both mediolateral and anteroposterior directions. Individuals with poor (unable to perform a single leg test for at least 30 s, eyes closed) vs. good postural stability, were also compared.ResultsIn both groups, a repeated analysis of variance demonstrated a significant time main effect on sway velocity (F = 14.95; p < 0.001) and path length (F = 14.95; p < 0.001) during eyes closed. Post-hoc analysis revealed a significant decrease in T1 values compared to baseline. When comparing individuals with poor vs good stability amongst the CAI group, a statistically significant interaction was observed between group, time on sway velocity and path length (F = 3.92; p < 0.05) during eyes closed. In the poor postural group, most T1 values were significantly lower than baseline.ConclusionsDynamic tape when applied to posterior calf muscles, enhanced balance control with no difference between CAI individuals and controls. The contribution of the tape was greater in those with poor postural stability.     

Postural orientation and standing postural alignment in ambulant children with bilateral cerebral palsy

BackgroundStanding postural alignment in children with cerebral palsy is usually altered by central postural control disorders. The primary aim of this study is to describe body alignment in a quiet standing position in ambulatory children with bilateral cerebral palsy compared with children with typical development.MethodsFifty-eight children with bilateral cerebral palsy (aged 7–13 years) and 45 age-matched children with typical development underwent a surface topography examination based on Moiré topography and were classified according to their sagittal postural profiles.FindingsThe following eight grouping variables were extracted using a data reduction technique: angle of trunk inclination, pelvic tilt, and lordosis, the difference between kyphosis and lordosis, angle of vertebral lateral curvature, shoulder inclination, and shoulder and pelvic rotation. According to the cluster analysis results, 25% of the participants were classified into Cluster 1, 9% into Cluster 2, 49% in Cluster 3, and 17% in Cluster 4.InterpretationThree different postural patterns emerged in accordance with the sagittal postural profiles in children with bilateral cerebral palsy and were defined as follows: 1) a lordotic postural pattern corresponding to forward-leaning posture; 2) a swayback postural pattern corresponding to backward-leaning posture; and 3) a balanced postural pattern corresponding to balanced posture.     

Acute effect of core stability and sensory-motor exercises on postural control during sitting and standing positions in young adults

SummaryCore stability exercises and exercises that stimulate sensory-motor information are recommended for the prevention of injuries and the maintenance and rehabilitation of deficits related to postural control (PC). However, the comparison of results between core stability and sensory-motor exercises in the literature is limited to sitting and standing positions.ObjectiveTo determine the acute effect of core stability and sensory-motor exercises on PC during sitting and standing in young adults.MethodsA total of 39 participants, with a mean age of 23 years, were randomly divided into three groups (1) Core stability exercises; (2) Sensory-motor exercises; (3) Control. Each group performed a sequence of five specific exercises of core stability and sensory-motor exercises (except controls). PC was evaluated before and after exercise in the seated and the one-legged stance conditions using a force platform.ResultsNo significant difference was found for any variables of postural oscillation (P > 0.05) among the three groups studied. The magnitude of the effect of interventions in general was a small to moderate effect (d = 0.02/-0.48).ConclusionThe findings show that acute intervention with core stability and sensory-motor exercises did not produce any significant effects (reduction of postural oscillation) on PC during sitting and standing positions in young adults.     

Isometric exercises and a simple appliance for temporomandibular joint dysfunction: a case report

This case report presents a treatment approach for a patient with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction signs and symptoms. Temporomandibular joint pain, jaw clicking and locking, and postural abnormalities were treated with gentle isometric (static) exercises, coordination exercises, and an easily fitted and readily available appliance. After treatment, the patient showed reduced TMJ pain, no jaw locking, and improved TMJ mobility. The patient also showed improved postural awareness. The results of treatment and the relatively minor cost of the appliance make the sharing of this case study potentially worthwhile for those clinicians treating patients with TMJ dysfunction.     

Auswirkungen der Face-Former-Therapie auf die Oberk?rperstatik

Objectives

The orofacial system and the musculoskeletal system are functionally and anatomically closely connected. The aim of this prospective clinical study was to find out whether the muscles of the musculoskeletal system can be influenced by myofunctional training in addition to the muscles of the stomatognathic system and if this is reflected in improved body posture.

Patients and methods

This study was carried out with 45 subjects who were divided into 2 study groups. Group 1 consisted of subjects with craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD) and therefore fulfilled the indications for face-former therapy. Group 2 consisted of subjects free from CMD and formed the control group. The myofunctional training with the face-former lasted 6 months. The upper torso posture was measured with a 3-dimensional back scanner (Diers formetric, Schlangenbad, Germany) at the beginning and end of the training period for all subjects. Multivariance analysis with Bonferroni correction was used for statistical analysis.

Results

The comparison of the back analysis within both groups showed no significant alterations in surface rotation, side deviation, kyphosis and lordosis angles as well as pelvic torsion and tilt between the measurements at the beginning and end of therapy. Only the torso tilt was significantly lower (p=0.007) in the study group after face-former therapy..

Conclusions

The results confirm the correlation between myofunctional exercises and an influence on posture. Myofunctional training with the face-former can result in straightening of the torso within 6 months in patients with orofacial dysfunction.