The Effect of TMJ Intervention on Instant Postural Changes and Dystonic Contractions in Patients Diagnosed with Dystonia: A Pilot Study

Abstract

(1) Background: The aim of the present study is to analyze the instant postural changes and changes in the dystonic contractions among patients with dystonia following the use of an intraoral device called a key integrative dynamic TMJ treatment appliance (KIDTA). (2) Methods: Twelve subjects, previously diagnosed with dystonia were enrolled. Their existing records were utilized to assess the changes in their posture and dystonic contractions. The posture analysis was conducted using a mobile application (APECS). The initial records (T0) and records acquired after the delivery of the KIDTA (T1) were utilized in the analysis. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was performed to compare parameters between T0 and T1, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. (3) Results: Based on the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, statistically significant differences in T1 compared to T0 were observed in the severity of dystonic spasms, body alignment, head shift, head tilt, shoulder alignment, shoulder angle, axillae alignment, ribcage tilt, pelvic tilt, knee angle, and tibia angle (p < 0.05). (4) Conclusions: Within the limitations of the present pilot study, an intervention to the TMJ through a KIDTA appliance seems to mitigate the severity of dystonic contractions and improve the posture with respect to certain postural parameters.