SURFACE EMG: digital technology in the management of temporomandibular disorders

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to recognize representative cranio-cervico-mandibular features of patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and associated temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), to assess a targeted and integrated treatment plan. MATERIALS AND METHODS: After a diagnosis of disease, 38 individiuals with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and temporomandibular symptomatology referred were evaluated. Gnathological evaluation, according to the Diagnostic Criteria for TMDs, and radiographic imaging was performed. In addition, digital evaluation of occlusal and muscular balance, using surface electromyography of jaw muscles, was conducted. Statistical software for data analysis - STATA (StataCorp, College station, Texas, USA) - was used. RESULTS: Most common temporomandibular dysfunctions were arthralgia, myalgia, disc displacement with reduction and subluxation. Headache and neck pain were the most frequent comorbidities. Somatization, depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive behavior were the most recurrent psychological disorders. Electromyographic analysis showed out of normal range data. CONCLUSION: Early diagnosis and interception are requested to avoid injuries and repeated traumatism. Multidisciplinary treatments are available to approach all the aspects of the syndrome.