The Role of Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction on Proprioception, Pain-related Parameters, and Body Awareness
The Role of Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction on Proprioception, Pain-related Parameters, and Body Awareness
The term "temporomandibular joint dysfunction" (TMJ dysfunction) refers to a range of anatomical and functional problems, with or without clinical signs and symptoms, that affect the TMJ and/or the chewing muscles. It is more frequent in women and young people ages between 20 and 40. Its frequency ranges from 28% to 88%. The term "temporomandibular joint dysfunction" (TMJ dysfunction) refers to a range of anatomical and functional problems, with or without clinical signs and symptoms, that affect the TMJ and/or the chewing muscles. It is more frequent in women and young people ages between 20 and 40. Its frequency ranges from 28% to 88%. This condition is frequently disregarded because of inadequate diagnosis . Additionally, TMJ dysfunction can particularly emerge in the early stages without the presence of pain. Due to the insidious onset of the disease, especially in the early stages, other TMJ-related factors, in addition to pain-related parameters, need to be considered.Therefore, the aim of the study is to investigate the effect of TME disorder on proprioception, body awareness, and pain-related parameters including pain threshold, pain tolerance, and temporal summation in young adults.
"In the study, young adults aged 18-25 will be included, with TMJ dysfunction being measured using the Fonseca Amnestic Index. Based on Fonseca scores, two groups will be formed: those scoring over 20 will be labeled 'with TMJ dysfunction,' while the others will be classified as 'without TMJ dysfunction.' Proprioception will be assessed both through self-reports using the Fremantle Neck Awareness Questionnaire and via joint position sense measured by a CROM device. Body awareness will also be evaluated using the Body Awareness Questionnaire. Pain assessment, including pain threshold, tolerance, and temporal summation, will be conducted using a pressure algometer. The 'pain threshold' will refer to the point at which a person first feels pain, 'pain tolerance' will be the last point that a person can tolerate, and 'temporal summation' will be the pain sensation evaluated after 10 repetitions of the pain threshold.
Inclusion Criteria:
*Being between 18-25 years old
Exclusion Criteria: