Next Article in Journal
Infections Are a Very Dangerous Affair: Enterobiasis and Death
Next Article in Special Issue
Effect of a Community Gerontology Program on the Control of Metabolic Syndrome in Mexican Older Adults
Previous Article in Journal
Medical Students’ Perspective and Knowledge of Asymptomatic Hyperuricemia and Gout Management: A Cross-Sectional Study
Previous Article in Special Issue
Phacoemulsification: Proposals for Improvement in Its Application
 
 
Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
Journals
Healthcare
Volume 9
Issue 12
10.3390/healthcare9121640
healthcare-logo
Submit to this Journal Review for this Journal Propose a Special Issue
► Article Menu

Article Menu

share Share announcement Help format_quote Cite question_answer Discuss in SciProfiles thumb_up
...
Endorse textsms
...
Comment
first_page
settings
Order Article Reprints
Font Type:
Arial Georgia Verdana
Font Size:
Aa Aa Aa
Line Spacing:
Column Width:
Background:
Article

Assessments of Muscle Thickness and Tonicity of the Masseter and Sternocleidomastoid Muscles and Maximum Mouth Opening in Patients with Temporomandibular Disorder

by
Keunhyo Lee
and
Seungchul Chon
*
Department of Physical Therapy, Graduate School of Medical Science, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, Korea
*
Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Healthcare 2021, 9(12), 1640; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9121640
Submission received: 25 October 2021 / Revised: 16 November 2021 / Accepted: 25 November 2021 / Published: 26 November 2021
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preventative Medicine)
Browse Figures
Review Reports Versions Notes

Abstract

:
The purpose of this study was to compare the muscle thickness and tone of the masseter and sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscles and maximum mouth opening (MMO) in subjects with and without temporomandibular disorders (TMD), and perform a correlation comparison on the results of the TMD group. Sixty patients were allocated to the TMD group (n = 30) or the non-TMD group (n = 30). Ultrasound imaging, myotonometer, and vernier calipers were used to determine the related changes in muscle thickness and muscle tone in masseter and SCM, and MMO, respectively. The TMD group revealed a significant decrease than the non-TMD group in the muscle thickness of masseter and SCM, respectively (p < 0.001), with a significant increase in frequency (p < 0.001) and stiffness (p < 0.001) in the masseter muscle tone, with a significant increase in frequency (p < 0.001) and stiffness (p = 0.005) in the SCM muscle tone, a significant decrease in the MMO (p < 0.001). There was a moderate negative correlation between the relaxed state of masseter muscle thickness and stiffness of SCM muscle tone (r = −0.40, p = 0.002), and a moderate negative correlation between the relaxed state of SCM muscle thickness and frequency of SCM muscle tone (r = −0.42, p = 0.001). There was a moderate negative correlation between the clenching state of SCM muscle thickness and the frequency of SCM muscle tone (r = −0.47, p < 0.001). In addition, a moderate negative correlation between MMO and frequency of SCM muscle tone (r = −0.44, p < 0.001). The muscle thickness was decreased, and the muscle tone was increased in the masseter and SCM muscle, respectively. Additionally, MMO was decreased in patients with TMD compared with non-TMD.

1. Introduction

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the temporal bone and mandibular bone, and is a complicated joint composed of an articular disc, jaw muscles, and ligaments [1]. It is a joint of multiple functions, such as chewing, deglutition movements, and articulation of the oral cavity [2]. Alessandro et al. [3] reported that the TMJ is a bilateral joint in which the bilateral mandibular bones roll or glide together, so symmetrical movements occur during opening, closing, protrusion, and retrusion. Although it is impossible to move the joints individually, asymmetrical movements occur when moving sideways or when chewing [4]. These asymmetrical movements cause temporomandibular disorder (TMD), causing pain in the soft tissue and limiting functional movement [5].
TMD, which shows pain and functional movement problems, is reported to be experienced by about 75% of the population [6]. In addition to the accompanying pain, malocclusion and crepitation frequently occur while TMD patients open their mouths [7]; in this case, managing activities of daily living are not easy and quality of life may be affected [8]. Additionally, this triggers intraoral pernicious habits, such as clenching and bruxism, thus causing parafunction of the masticatory muscle [9].
The main functions of TMJ, such as mouth opening, chewing, and lateral movement, are controlled by the masticatory, temporal, pterygoid and sternocleidomastoid (SCM), and lateral chewing is considered the most important function [10]. It has been reported that such lateral chewing causes the biomechanical imbalance of masticatory muscles, resulting in TMD [11]. The masseter muscle plays a major role in the chewing function [12], and SCM has been reported as an important muscle providing head and neck stability in performing mastication [13]. Pizolato et al. [14] reported that TMD patients had weak chewing force, and Pereira et al. [15] reported a positive correlation between occlusal force and masseter muscle thickness.
SCM is an important factor in head control for mastication and is one of the major muscles influencing TMD, referred pain muscle to the stomatognathic systems [16]. Patients with TMD have an imbalanced occlusal pattern [17]. An imbalance in the occlusal pattern promotes an imbalance in SCM activity, causing a lateral tilt of the neck [18]. Pallegama et al. [19] observed a high muscle activity of the SCM in TMD patients. The thickness and activity of the SCM are affected by dysfunction and mandibular movements [17].
The structure of TMJ is stable because the fibrous ligaments protect it from stress and tension in the joint [20]. Abnormalities in the chewing system due to increased masticatory muscle tone affect masticatory dysfunction [21]. Excessive use of the jaw or mouth and constant tension in the head and neck muscles have been reported to experience TMD signs and symptoms [22]. In TMD patients, pain often occurs when the range of motion (ROM) of the jaw joint like mouth open is increased. Restricted mouth opening is a typical symptom of TMD [23]. It is accompanied by symptoms, such as strepitus, limited movement of the jaw joint, and asymmetric mouth movement [24].
Emshoff et al. [25] suggested that ultrasonography is a reliable technique for evaluating the masseter and SCM muscles of TMD patients. This study used functional ultrasonographic devices and myotonometers, which are recently universally utilized with high efficiency in the rehabilitation field. The aim of this study was to compare muscle thickness, tone, and maximum mouth opening (MMO) of the masseter and SCM muscles between the TMD group and the normal group using the above quantitative tools. In addition, we aimed to determine is a correlation between each factor like muscle thickness and tone of the masseter and SCM muscles and MMO in the TMD group.

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. Participants

All subjects were recruited from the Konyang Medical University community. Subjects were classified into TMD and non-TMD through questionnaires based on the American Academy of Orofacial Pain (AAOP). The age ranged from 20 to 27 years, with an average of 24.2 years (Table 1). A physical therapist (K.H.L.) with 5 years of experience made the diagnosis of TMD according to the clinical assessment criteria.
The clinical criteria for diagnosing TMD were determined by a simplified questionnaire based on the AAOP. The questionnaire for TMD is easily identified by relating the patient’s current state to TMD, without a specialized clinical examination [26]. If any of the 10 question factors showed a positive response, it was sufficient to confirm TMD, and the severity of symptoms was determined by the number of positive responses [26] The sensitivity and specificity of this questionnaire were 85% and 80%, respectively [27]. The exclusion criteria were as follows: (1) patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (2) patients with neurological diseases (3) patients who have undergone artificial surgery on the jaw or neck (4) patients who use analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs.
Subjects were allocated before the initial assessment. All of them participated in the measurements. The physiotherapist undertaking the assessment was also blinded to the group allocation. All subjects participated after fully understanding the purpose and methods of this study, which provided informed consent. This study was approved by the university ethics and institutional review board (IRB approval no. KYU-2020-169-02 and Clinical Research Information Service approval no. KCT0005941).

2.2. Instrumentation

To measure body mass index, a body composition analyzer utilizing a bioelectrical impedance method (In Body 4, Biospace, Seoul, Korea) was used. In this evaluation tool, the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) value was body fat percent% (≥0.98), fat mass (≥0.98), and fat free mass (≥0.99) [28]. After removing any metallic items, such as necklaces, earrings, and watches, the subject stood barefoot on a floor electrode and held a handle with each hand, while remaining still.
A numerical rating scale consisting of 11 questions was used to measure the degree of pain within the TMD group. Patients were asked to evaluate their intensity of pain by assigning scores from 0 for “no pain” to 10 for “worst pain imaginable.” In this evaluation tool, the ICC value was 0.95, and the Cronbach alpha value was 0.88 [29].
An ultrasound device was used to measure the thickness of the masseter muscle and SCM in a relaxed and clenched state of the TMJ. This equipment is easy to operate and transport and is accurate for soft tissue evaluation [30]. According to Yamaguchi et al. [31], the intra-rater reliability of ultrasound measurements of the masseter muscle is 0.83 in the rest state and 0.86 in the contraction state in ICC. In addition, ICC was 0.91 in the rest state and 0.92 in the contracted state.
A myotonometer was used to non-invasively measure the tone of the muscles around the TMJ. In addition, it measured the deformation properties of the naturally damped vibrations generated after a short 15 ms mechanical tap on the skin’s surface [32]. The following results were expressed numerically by computerizing the biomechanical properties [33]: (1) the oscillation frequency (Hz), which indicates the tone (i.e., intrinsic tension) of a muscle in a resting state; (2) the logarithmic decrement of a muscle’s natural oscillation, which indicates the elasticity of the muscle; for example, its ability to recover its shape after contraction; (3) dynamic stiffness (N/m), which characterizes the resistance of the muscle to contract. According to a study by Lucy et al. [33], the mean reliability of muscle tone measurement using a myotonometer is very high (ICC > 0.90) of two measurement sets.
A digital vernier caliper was used to evaluate the MMO of the TMJ. This tool can measure in 0.01 mm increments to minimize the error range. It is a versatile precision instrument used to accurately measure point-to-point distances. According to a study by Norman et al. [34], when the MMO was measured using vernier calipers, it was 0.97 in intrasession and 0.97 in intersession.

2.3. Procedures

The patients were comfortably measured in a lying position with a pillow under the knees after a stable state for 10 min for ultrasonography and myotonometer measurements. When measuring muscle thickness and muscle tone in the relaxed state, the subject was set so that the head and neck were horizontal, shoulder edges were kept in contact with the floor. Muscle thickness of masseter and SCM muscle were respectively measured in the clenched state that the jaw clenched maximally for 5 s. The measurement was performed on the symptomatic or more painful side as a dominant side. Measured at the end of the relaxed expiration to minimize changes due to breathing. All measurements were conducted three times and the average value was used.
We used a linear probe (Mysono U6, Samsung Medison Inc., Seoul, Korea) with a broadband frequency of 5–12 MHz. The measurement site was approximately at the thickest part of the masseter muscle in the middle of the mediolateral distance of the ramus [35] and a transversely placed transducer was utilized without applying over-pressure to the skin [36] (Figure 1). According to the method used by Satiroğlu et al. [35], the transducer was held perpendicular to the surface of the skin and special care was taken to avoid excessive pressure during imaging measurements. Scanning the masseter muscle aslant increases the muscle thickness; to avoid this, frequently changed the angle of the transducer until the best echo of the mandibular ramus surface was achieved. The muscle thickness of the SCM was determined using a 7.5 MHz, linear transducer placed approximately 5 cm lateral to the trachea with the neck vertical [37](Figure 2). With the patient in the same position as for the muscle thickness measurements, the muscle belly in the middle of the SCM was palpated and marked.
For the myotonometer measurements (Myoton PRO, MYOTON AS, Tallinn, Estonia), a probe with a diameter of 3 mm was applied perpendicularly to the skin surface with a constant preload of 0.18 N [38]. The tonicity of the masseter and SCM muscle was measured using a myotonometer. A straight line was connected from the subject’s eye corner to the mandibular angle and the intersection point between the straight line and the zygomatic bone was established. The midpoint between the mandibular angle and the intersection point was set as the measuring point of the masseter muscle, which corresponds to the midpoint of the masseter muscle belly [39]. The SCM was examined after palpation at the midpoint between the insertion of the manubrium sterni into the anterior surface and the mastoid process of the temporal bone [40] (Figure 3). The myotonometer was placed with each muscle vertical, and the average of three measurements was used as the data value.
The MMO was measured using a digital vernier caliper (CD-20PSX, Mitutoyo Corp, Kawasaki, Japan), and the subject was seated upright on a fixed chair with armrests, looking straight ahead. The patient was asked to open their mouth to the pain-free range, the distance between the two incisors of the maxilla and mandible was measured.

2.4. Statistical Analysis

G-Power 3.1.9.4 software (University of Dusseldorf, Dusseldorf, Germany) was used to perform a sample size calculation. The power (1-β) and alpha levels (α) were set at 0.80 (80%) and 0.05, respectively. In addition, the effect size was set at 0.80. According to prior analysis, the sample size for each group required 26 subjects. In this study, a total of 60 subjects (each group had 30 subjects) was selected for reflecting the drop-out rate before the prior study, but there were no drop-outs. The Kolmogorov–Smirnov test was performed as a normality test method to determine nonparametric/parametric statistics for all measured variables. As a result, it was found to be greater than the significance level of 0.05, confirming the normal distribution. Therefore, the general characteristics of the subjects were expressed as means and standard deviations using descriptive statistics to compare both groups. Independent t-tests were used to compare relaxed and clenched muscle thickness, muscle tone, and MMO in both groups. Pearson’s correlation analysis was used to evaluate correlation among muscle thickness, muscle tone, and MMO. The collected data were analyzed using the statistical program SPSS ver. 20.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

3. Results

The TMD group revealed a significant decrease compared to the non-TMD group in the muscle thickness of masseter and SCM, respectively, when in the relaxed state (p = 0.001) and clenching state (p < 0.001) (Table 2).
The TMD group showed a significant increase compared to the non-TMD group in frequency (p < 0.001) and stiffness (p < 0.001) in the masseter muscle tone, but decrement (p = 0.35) did not show a significant difference. Additionally, the TMD group showed a significant increase compared to the non-TMD group in frequency (p < 0.001) and stiffness (p = 0.005) in the SCM muscle tone, but decrement (p = 0.76) did not show a significant difference (Table 3).
The TMD group showed a significant decrease compared to the non-TMD group in the MMO (p < 0.001) (Table 4).
There was a mild negative correlation between MMO and frequency of masseter muscle tone (r = −0.39, p = 0.002). There was a mild negative correlation between MMO and stiffness of masseter muscle tone (r = −0.27, p = 0.035), with a moderate negative correlation between MMO and stiffness of masseter muscle tone (r = −0.51, p < 0.001). There was a mild negative correlation between the relaxed state of masseter muscle thickness and frequency of SCM muscle tone (r = −0.38, p = 0.003), with a moderate negative correlation between the relaxed state of masseter muscle thickness and stiffness of SCM muscle tone (r = −0.40, p = 0.002). There was a mild negative correlation between the clenching state of masseter muscle thickness and frequency of SCM muscle tone (r = −0.34, p = 0.008), with a mild negative correlation between clenching state of masseter muscle thickness and stiffness of SCM muscle tone (r = −0.32, p = 0.011). There was a moderate negative correlation between the relaxed state of SCM muscle thickness and frequency of SCM muscle tone (r = −0.42, p = 0.001), with a mild negative correlation between the relaxed state of SCM muscle thickness and stiffness of SCM muscle tone (r = −0.42, p = 0.001). There was a moderate negative correlation between the clenching state of SCM muscle thickness and the frequency of SCM muscle tone (r = −0.47, p < 0.001) and a mild negative correlation between the clenching state of SCM muscle thickness and stiffness of SCM muscle tone (r = −0.31, p = 0.015). There was a moderate negative correlation between MMO and frequency of SCM muscle tone (r = −0.44, p < 0.001), with a mild negative correlation between MMO and stiffness of SCM muscle tone (r = −0.34, p = 0.007). However, there was no correlation in any other items (Table 5).

4. Discussion

The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is a difference in the relaxed and clenched state, muscle thickness, muscle tone, and MMO of the masseter and SCM muscles with and without TMD. As a result, in the TMD group, the masseter and SCM muscle was thinner in the relaxed and clenched states, and also, the length of MMO was found to be short. In addition, in the comparison of muscle tone, both frequency and stiffness of muscles including the masseter and the SCM were shown to be increased in the TMD group. Lastly, in the correlation within the TMD group, the thicknesses of the masseter and SCM muscles decreased as the SCM muscle tone increased. However, the degree of correlation was weak or moderate.
Widmer et al. [41] found that myopathological damage to the masseter muscle causes not only pain but also the occlusal shape and power of the TMJ and may lead to speech impairment. Therefore, we investigated the thickness of the masseter muscle using quantitative ultrasonographic images of both TMD and non-TMD, respectively. As a result, the thickness of the masseter muscle of the TMD was 18.8% lower in the relaxed state and 15.9% lower in the clenched state. Imanimoghaddam et al. [42] found that the masseter thickness of the TMD group was 10.8% lower than that of a non-TMD. Pereira et al. [15] reported that the masseter muscle thickness of the group with TMD was 3.8% lower in the right contracted state and 2.3% lower in the left contracted state than in the non-TMD group. Castelo et al. [43] found that there is a positive correlation between masseter muscle thickness and bite force. According to Pereira et al. [15], the bite force was significantly lower in the TMD group when compared to the control group. Therefore, it is considered that the TMD group with pain decreases the thickness of the masseter muscle.
In this study, we investigated the muscle thickness of SCM in both TMD and non-TMD groups. As a result, the TMD group showed about 18% thinner SCM muscle in the relaxed and clenched states, respectively. In the Strini et al. [16] study, the thickness of the SCM in the TMD group was 2.8% less than that of the non-TMD group. Strini et al. [17] showed that the thickness of the SCM presented 10.5% less in a relaxed state, and 9.6% less in a clenched state on the right side; the left side was 7.3% less when relaxed and 7.2% less when clenching in the TMD group than in the non-TMD group. The head position and mandibular movements (flexion & lateral tilt) were shown to affect the SCM thickness and activity, especially during the clenching state [17]. In addition, According to Ries et al. [44], the asymmetry activation of SCM muscle was significantly increased in the TMD group when compared to the control group. Therefore, in this study, the thickness of the SCM muscle was decreased in the TMD group.
The measured values of the myotonometer device used in this study were frequency, decrement, and stiffness. Compared with the non-TMD group, the frequency and stiffness of the masseter muscle in the TMD group were 12.6% and 16.5% increased, respectively. In addition, the frequency and stiffness in SCM muscle were increased at 11.5% and 14.4%, separately. Takashima et al. [45] reported that masseter muscle stiffness in the TMD group was approximately 57% increased than that of the non-TMD group. According to Schroeder et al. [46], patients with the TMD often have additional complaints, such as headaches and hypertension in the anterior neck region, bringing about an association of an increase in muscle activity of the SCM. Vain [47] stated that frequency represents muscle tone, decrement means muscle elasticity and the muscle’s ability to restore its initial shape after deformation and stiffness reflects the ability of the muscle to resist changes in its shape. Additionally, it may be considered that the increased muscle tone in the TMD group was affected by external stimuli, such as pain, mal-alignment, overuse [48]. It can be interpreted that both the tone(frequency) of masseter and SCM muscles of the TMD group were increased.
In this study, the average mouth open range of the TMD group was 3.45 cm, which was 57.1% less than that of the non-TMD group. Rapidis et al. [49] suggest that the normal range of TMJ is 4~5 cm, and if it is less than 3.5 cm it is defined as TMD. Evcik et al. [50] found that MMO in the TMD group was approximately 56.8% less than that of a control group. Therefore, the TMD group was not included in the normal range.
As a result of the correlation study, there were moderate negative results between the MMO and stiffness of masseter muscle tone. There were moderate negative results between the MMO and frequency of SCM muscles tone. Takashima et al. [45] reported that masseter muscle stiffness was negatively correlated with MMO (r = −0.389). These kinds of report in correlation with MMO were paralleled with increased muscle tone like stiffness or frequency of masseter and SCM muscle, respectively.
The limitations of this study are as follows. First, the results of this study cannot be generalized because the sample was limited to the young adult population. Second, only a one-sided comparison of the TMJ was performed, not a both-sided comparison. Third, it may be a research design that is somewhat unreasonable to draw conclusions of cause and effect. Therefore, a study investigating the comparison of TMD or non-TMD on a large number of subjects with both sides of TMJ is needed in order to fully elucidate the clinical benefits for a wide range of subjects including temporalis and pterygoid muscles.

5. Conclusions

This study provides empirical evidence to show that the thickness of the masseter and SCM muscles decreased in the TMD group when compared to the non-TMD group. In addition, the tone of the masseter and SCM muscles increased, and MMO decreased. Finally, there were moderate negative results between the MMO and stiffness of masseter muscle tone. There were moderate negative results between the MMO and frequency of SCM muscles tone. Therefore, when planning exercise programs and treatments for TMD patients, efforts to reduce the tone of the masseter and SCM muscles are expected to help improve jaw opening.

Author Contributions

K.L. drafted this review, and participated in the acquisition of the data, the analysis, and interpretation of the data. S.C. made substantial contributions to the conception and design of the review and revised the article critically for important intellectual content. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Funding

This research was funded by the Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) funded by the Ministry of Education (2020R1I1A3A04037574).

Institutional Review Board Statement

The study was conducted according to the guidelines of the Declaration of Helsinki, and approved by the Institutional Review Board of the Konyang University (IRB approval no. KYU-2020-169-02).

Informed Consent Statement

Informed consent was obtained from all subjects involved in the study.

Data Availability Statement

Data from this study can be requested from the first author. The analyzed data is not disclosed to everyone, to protect the privacy and ethical protection of the subjects.

Acknowledgments

This research was supported by Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) funded by the Ministry of Education (2020R1I1A3A04037574).

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

References

  1. Reiter, S.; Goldsmith, C.; Emodi-Perlman, A.; Friedman-Rubin, P.; Winocur, E. Masticatory muscle disorders diagnostic criteria: The American Academy of Orofacial Pain versus the research diagnostic criteria/temporomandibular disorders (RDC/TMD). J. Oral Rehabil. 2012, 39, 941–947. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  2. Gauer, R.L.; Semidey, M.J. Diagnosis and treatment of temporomandibular disorders. Am. Fam. Physician 2015, 91, 378–386. [Google Scholar] [PubMed]
  3. Del Vecchio, A.; Floravanti, M.; Boccassini, A.; Gaimari, G.; Vestri, A.; Di Paolo, C.; Romeo, U. Evaluation of the efficacy of a new low-level laser therapy home protocol in the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorder-related pain: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Cranio J. Craniomandib. Pract. 2021, 39, 141–150. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  4. Khairnar, S.; Bhate, K.; Kumar, S.; Kshirsagar, K.; Jagtap, B.; Kakodkar, P. Comparative evaluation of low-level laser therapy and ultrasound heat therapy in reducing temporomandibular joint disorder pain. J. Dent. Anesth. Pain Med. 2019, 19, 289–294. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  5. Abate, A.; Cavagnetto, D.; Rusconi, F.M.E.; Cressoni, P.; Esposito, L. Safety and Effects of the Rapid Maxillary Expander on Temporomandibular Joint in Subjects Affected by Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A Retrospective Study. Children 2021, 8, 33. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  6. Graff-Radford, S.B. Temporomandibular disorders and headache. Dent. Clin. N. Am. 2007, 51, 129–144. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  7. Poveda Roda, R.; Díaz Fernández, J.M.; Hernández Bazán, S.; Jiménez Soriano, Y.; Margaix, M.; Sarrión, G. A review of temporomandibular joint disease (TMJD). Part II: Clinical and radiological semiology. Morbidity processes. Med. Oral Patol. Oral Y Cir. Bucal 2008, 13, E102–E109. [Google Scholar]
  8. Durham, J.; Steele, J.G.; Wassell, R.W.; Exley, C. Living with uncertainty: Temporomandibular disorders. J. Dent. Res. 2010, 89, 827–830. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  9. Kim, M.E. A study on TMD and stress of first children. J. Korean Soc. Dent. Hyg. 2010, 10, 683–693. [Google Scholar]
  10. Pond, L.H.; Barghi, N.; Barnwell, G.M. Occlusion and chewing side preference. J. Prosthet. Dent. 1986, 55, 498–500. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  11. Romero-Reyes, M.; Uyanik, J.M. Orofacial pain management: Current perspectives. J. Pain Res. 2014, 7, 99–115. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  12. McComas, A.J. Oro-facial muscles: Internal structure, function and ageing. Gerodontology 1998, 15, 3–14. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  13. Guo, S.X.; Li, B.Y.; Zhang, Y.; Zhou, L.J.; Liu, L.; Widmalm, S.E.; Wang, M.Q. An electromyographic study on the sequential recruitment of bilateral sternocleidomastoid and masseter muscle activity during gum chewing. J. Oral Rehabil. 2017, 44, 594–601. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  14. Pizolato, R.A.; Gavião, M.B.; Berretin-Felix, G.; Sampaio, A.C.; Trindade Junior, A.S. Maximal bite force in young adults with temporomandibular disorders and bruxism. Braz. Oral Res. 2007, 21, 278–283. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  15. Pereira, L.J.; Gavião, M.B.; Bonjardim, L.R.; Castelo, P.M.; van der Bilt, A. Muscle thickness, bite force, and craniofacial dimensions in adolescents with signs and symptoms of temporomandibular dysfunction. Eur. J. Orthod. 2007, 29, 72–78. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  16. Strini, P.J.; Strini, P.J.; de Souza Barbosa, T.; Gavião, M.B. Assessment of thickness and function of masticatory and cervical muscles in adults with and without temporomandibular disorders. Arch. Oral Biol. 2013, 58, 1100–1108. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  17. Strini, P.; Strini, P.; Barbosa, T.; Gavião, M.B. Effects of Head Posture on Cervical Muscle Thickness and Activity in Young Adults With and Without Temporomandibular Disorders. J. Musculoskelet. Pain 2014, 22, 89–98. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  18. Kibana, Y.; Ishijima, T.; Hirai, T. Occlusal support and head posture. J. Oral Rehabil. 2002, 29, 58–63. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  19. Pallegama, R.W.; Ranasinghe, A.W.; Weerasinghe, V.S.; Sitheeque, M.A. Influence of masticatory muscle pain on electromyographic activities of cervical muscles in patients with myogenous temporomandibular disorders. J. Oral Rehabil. 2004, 31, 423–429. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  20. Cuccia, A.M.; Caradonna, C.; Caradonna, D. Manual therapy of the mandibular accessory ligaments for the management of temporomandibular joint disorders. J. Am. Osteopath. Assoc. 2011, 111, 102–112. [Google Scholar]
  21. Shamim, T. The psychosomatic disorders pertaining to dental practice with revised working type classification. Korean J. Pain 2014, 27, 16–22. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  22. Jang, J.Y.; Kwon, J.S.; Lee, D.H.; Bae, J.H.; Kim, S.T. Clinical Signs and Subjective Symptoms of Temporomandibular Disorders in Instrumentalists. Yonsei Med. J. 2016, 57, 1500–1507. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  23. McNeill, C.; Danzig, W.M.; Farrar, W.B.; Gelb, H.; Lerman, M.D.; Moffett, B.C.; Pertes, R.; Solberg, W.K.; Weinberg, L.A. Position paper of the American Academy of Craniomandibular Disorders. Craniomandibular (TMJ) disorders—The state of the art. J. Prosthet. Dent. 1980, 44, 434–437. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  24. Wadhwa, S.; Kapila, S. TMJ disorders: Future innovations in diagnostics and therapeutics. J. Dent. Educ. 2008, 72, 930–947. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  25. Emshoff, R.; Bertram, S.; Strobl, H. Ultrasonographic cross-sectional characteristics of muscles of the head and neck. Oral Surg. Oral Med. Oral Pathol. Oral Radiol. Endod. 1999, 87, 93–106. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  26. Son, D.E.; Ahn, Y.W.; Park, J.S.; Ko, M.Y. An Epidemiological Study of Temporomandibular Disorders Patients by Screening Questionnaire. J. Oral Med. Pain 2004, 29, 341–351. [Google Scholar]
  27. Manfredi, A.; Silva, A.; Vendite, L. The sensibility appreciation of the questionnaire for selection of orofacial pain and temporomandibular disorders recommended by the American Academy of Orofacial Pain. Rev. Bras. De Otorrinolaringol. 2001, 67, 763–768. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  28. McLester, C.N.; Nickerson, B.S.; Kliszczewicz, B.M.; McLester, J.R. Reliability and Agreement of Various InBody Body Composition Analyzers as Compared to Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry in Healthy Men and Women. J. Clin. Densitom. Off. J. Int. Soc. Clin. Densitom. 2020, 23, 443–450. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  29. Herr, K.A.; Spratt, K.; Mobily, P.R.; Richardson, G. Pain intensity assessment in older adults: Use of experimental pain to compare psychometric properties and usability of selected pain scales with younger adults. Clin. J. Pain 2004, 20, 207–219. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  30. Emshoff, R.; Emshoff, I.; Rudisch, A.; Bertram, S. Reliability and temporal variation of masseter muscle thickness measurements utilizing ultrasonography. J. Oral Rehabil. 2003, 30, 1168–1172. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  31. Yamaguchi, K.; Tohara, H.; Hara, K.; Nakane, A.; Kajisa, E.; Yoshimi, K.; Minakuchi, S. Relationship of aging, skeletal muscle mass, and tooth loss with masseter muscle thickness. BMC Geriatr. 2018, 18, 67. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  32. Korhonen, R.K.; Vain, A.; Vanninen, E.; Viir, R.; Jurvelin, J.S. Can mechanical myotonometry or electromyography be used for the prediction of intramuscular pressure? Physiol. Meas. 2005, 26, 951–963. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  33. Aird, L.; Samuel, D.; Stokes, M. Quadriceps muscle tone, elasticity and stiffness in older males: Reliability and symmetry using the MyotonPRO. Arch. Gerontol. Geriatr. 2012, 55, e31–e39. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  34. Best, N.; Best, S.; Loudovici-Krug, D.; Smolenski, U.C. Measurement of mandible movements using a vernier caliper--an evaluation of the intrasession-, intersession- and interobserver reliability. Cranio J. Craniomandib. Pract. 2013, 31, 176–180. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  35. Satiroğlu, F.; Arun, T.; Işik, F. Comparative data on facial morphology and muscle thickness using ultrasonography. Eur. J. Orthod. 2005, 27, 562–567. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  36. Kiliaridis, S.; Kälebo, P. Masseter muscle thickness measured by ultrasonography and its relation to facial morphology. J. Dent. Res. 1991, 70, 1262–1265. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  37. Jesus, F.M.; Ferreira, P.H.; Ferreira, M.L. Ultrasonographic measurement of neck muscle recruitment: A preliminary investigation. J. Man. Manip. Ther. 2008, 16, 89–92. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed] [Green Version]
  38. Kocur, P.; Grzeskowiak, M.; Wiernicka, M.; Goliwas, M.; Lewandowski, J.; Łochyński, D. Effects of aging on mechanical properties of sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles during transition from lying to sitting position-A cross-sectional study. Arch. Gerontol. Geriatr. 2017, 70, 14–18. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  39. Hara, K.; Namiki, C.; Yamaguchi, K.; Kobayashi, K.; Saito, T.; Nakagawa, K.; Ishii, M.; Okumura, T.; Tohara, H. Association between myotonometric measurement of masseter muscle stiffness and maximum bite force in healthy elders. J. Oral Rehabil. 2020, 47, 750–756. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  40. Kocur, P.; Tomczak, M.; Wiernicka, M.; Goliwąs, M.; Lewandowski, J.; Łochyński, D. Relationship between age, BMI, head posture and superficial neck muscle stiffness and elasticity in adult women. Sci. Rep. 2019, 9, 8515. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  41. Widmer, C.G.; English, A.W.; Morris-Wiman, J. Developmental and functional considerations of masseter muscle partitioning. Arch. Oral Biol. 2007, 52, 305–308. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed] [Green Version]
  42. Imanimoghaddam, M.; Davachi, B.; Madani, A.S.; Nemati, S. Ultrasonographic findings of masseter muscle in females with temporomandibular disorders. J. Craniofacial Surg. 2013, 24, e108–e112. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  43. Castelo, P.M.; Gavião, M.B.; Pereira, L.J.; Bonjardim, L.R. Masticatory muscle thickness, bite force, and occlusal contacts in young children with unilateral posterior crossbite. Eur. J. Orthod. 2007, 29, 149–156. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed] [Green Version]
  44. Ries, L.G.; Alves, M.C.; Bérzin, F. Asymmetric activation of temporalis, masseter, and sternocleidomastoid muscles in temporomandibular disorder patients. Cranio J. Craniomandib. Pract. 2008, 26, 59–64. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  45. Takashima, M.; Arai, Y.; Kawamura, A.; Hayashi, T.; Takagi, R. Quantitative evaluation of masseter muscle stiffness in patients with temporomandibular disorders using shear wave elastography. J. Prosthodont. Res. 2017, 61, 432–438. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  46. Schroeder, H.; Siegmund, H.; Santibáñez, G.; Kluge, A. Causes and signs of temporomandibular joint pain and dysfunction: An electromyographical investigation. J. Oral Rehabil. 1991, 18, 301–310. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  47. Vain, A. Role of skeletal muscle tone and elasticity in the workability restoration of male crosscountry skiers. Acta Acad. Olymp. Est. 2005, 13, 95–108. [Google Scholar]
  48. Wozniak, E.; Loster, J.E.; Wieczorek, A. Relation between Headache and Mastication Muscle Tone in Adolescents. Pain Res. Manag. 2018, 2018, 7381973. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  49. Rapidis, A.D.; Dijkstra, P.U.; Roodenburg, J.L.; Rodrigo, J.P.; Rinaldo, A.; Strojan, P.; Takes, R.P.; Ferlito, A. Trismus in patients with head and neck cancer: Etiopathogenesis, diagnosis and management. Clin. Otolaryngol. Off. J. ENT-UK Off. J. Neth. Soc. Oto-Rhino-Laryngol. Cervico-Facial Surg. 2015, 40, 516–526. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  50. Evcik, D.; Aksoy, O. Relationship Between Head Posture and Temporomandibular Dysfunction Syndrome. J. Musculoskelet. Pain 2004, 12, 19–24. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Healthcare 09 01640 g001 550
Figure 1. Masseter muscle thickness measurement: (a) Measurement site; (b) Ultrasound imaging (A: Masseter muscle surface; B: Masseter muscle thickness; C: Mandibular ramus).
Figure 1. Masseter muscle thickness measurement: (a) Measurement site; (b) Ultrasound imaging (A: Masseter muscle surface; B: Masseter muscle thickness; C: Mandibular ramus).
Healthcare 09 01640 g001
Healthcare 09 01640 g002 550
Figure 2. SCM muscle thickness measurement: (a) Measurement site; (b) Ultrasound imaging (A: SCM muscle thickness; B: Carotid Artery).
Figure 2. SCM muscle thickness measurement: (a) Measurement site; (b) Ultrasound imaging (A: SCM muscle thickness; B: Carotid Artery).
Healthcare 09 01640 g002
Healthcare 09 01640 g003 550
Figure 3. Muscle tone measurement site: (a) Masseter muscle; (b) SCM Muscle.
Figure 3. Muscle tone measurement site: (a) Masseter muscle; (b) SCM Muscle.
Healthcare 09 01640 g003
Table
Table 1. General characteristics of the subjects (Mean ± SD).
Table 1. General characteristics of the subjects (Mean ± SD).
VariableTMD Group
(n1 = 30)		Non-TMD Group
(n2 = 30)		p-Value
Gender (Male/Female)12/1814/160.60
Age (years)24.0 ± 1.724.3 ± 1.60.59
Height (cm)167.7 ± 5.6168.3 ± 4.80.69
Body mass (kg)59.9 ± 5.060.3 ± 6.90.83
BMI (kg/m2)20.9 ± 2.621.3 ± 2.60.49
NRS5.3 ± 1.0
AAOP questionnaire2.3 ± 1.9
BMI: Body mass index; NRS: Numerical rating scale; AAOP: American academy of orofacial pain.
Table
Table 2. Comparison on relaxed and clenching thickness in both groups (Mean ± SD).
Table 2. Comparison on relaxed and clenching thickness in both groups (Mean ± SD).
VariableTMD Group
(n1 = 30)		Non-TMD Group
(n2 = 30)		p-Value
MasseterRelaxed (mm)10.7 ± 2.012.7 ± 1.9<0.001
Clenching (mm)12.9 ± 2.015.0 ± 2.2<0.001
SCMRelaxed (mm)10.0 ± 2.011.9 ± 1.6<0.001
Clenching (mm)12.2 ± 2.214.4 ± 1.8<0.001
SCM: Sternocleidomastoid muscle.
Table
Table 3. Comparison on muscle tone in both groups (Mean ± SD).
Table 3. Comparison on muscle tone in both groups (Mean ± SD).
VariableTMD Group
(n1 = 30)		Non-TMD Group
(n2 = 30)		p-Value
MasseterFrequency (Hz)24.1 ± 2.821.4 ± 2.4<0.001
Decrement (log)1.5 ± 0.31.6 ± 0.30.35
Stiffness (N/m)507.2 ± 63.4435.2 ± 71.2<0.001
SCMFrequency (Hz)16.5 ± 1.314.8 ± 1.5<0.001
Decrement (log)1.4 ± 0.21.4 ± 0.20.76
Stiffness (N/m)281.6 ± 52.8246.0 ± 41.20.005
SCM: Sternocleidomastoid muscle.
Table
Table 4. Comparison on maximum mouth opening in both groups (Mean ± SD).
Table 4. Comparison on maximum mouth opening in both groups (Mean ± SD).
VariableTMD Group
(n1 = 30)		Non-TMD Group
(n2 = 30)		p-Value
MMO (cm)3.4 ± 0.35.4 ± 0.5<0.001
MMO: Maximum mouth opening.
Table
Table 5. Pearson correlations coefficient among muscle thickness, muscle tone and maximum mouth opening in the TMD group.
Table 5. Pearson correlations coefficient among muscle thickness, muscle tone and maximum mouth opening in the TMD group.
VariableMasseter Muscle ToneSCM Muscle Tone
FrequencyDecrementStiffnessFrequencyDecrementStiffness
r(p)r(p)r(p)r(p)r(p)r(p)
MasseterRelaxed−0.15(0.25)−0.03(0.81)−0.16(0.19)−0.38(0.003)−0.04(0.75)−0.40(0.002)
Clenching−0.17(0.17)−0.01(0.89)−0.16(0.19)−0.34(0.008)−0.02(0.86)−0.32(0.011)
SCMRelaxed−0.21(0.10)0.02(0.85)−0.16(0.21)−0.42(0.001)0.09(0.47)−0.35(0.005)
Clenching−0.21(0.10)0.07(0.56)−0.27(0.35)−0.47(<0.001)0.08(0.53)−0.31(0.015)
MMO−0.39(0.002)0.03(0.77)−0.51(<0.001)−0.44(<0.001)−0.07(0.57)−0.34(0.007)
SCM: Sternocleidomastoid muscle; MMO: Maximum mouth opening; 0–0.19 is regarded as very weak, 0.2–0.39 as weak, 0.40–0.59 as moderate, 0.6–0.79 as strong and 0.8–1 as very strong correlation.
Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

Share and Cite

MDPI and ACS Style

Lee, K.; Chon, S. Assessments of Muscle Thickness and Tonicity of the Masseter and Sternocleidomastoid Muscles and Maximum Mouth Opening in Patients with Temporomandibular Disorder. Healthcare 2021, 9, 1640. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9121640

AMA Style

Lee K, Chon S. Assessments of Muscle Thickness and Tonicity of the Masseter and Sternocleidomastoid Muscles and Maximum Mouth Opening in Patients with Temporomandibular Disorder. Healthcare. 2021; 9(12):1640. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9121640

Chicago/Turabian Style

Lee, Keunhyo, and Seungchul Chon. 2021. "Assessments of Muscle Thickness and Tonicity of the Masseter and Sternocleidomastoid Muscles and Maximum Mouth Opening in Patients with Temporomandibular Disorder" Healthcare 9, no. 12: 1640. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9121640

Note that from the first issue of 2016, this journal uses article numbers instead of page numbers. See further details here.

Article Metrics

Back to TopTop