Effect of jaw functional status on neck muscle endurance

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the effect of resting jaw and maximum voluntary clenching on neck flexor and extensor muscle endurance. Design: Neck flexor and extensor endurance was measured in a college health clinic in 85 male college students in two test positions: resting jaw (control) and maximum voluntary clenching. Results: Mean neck flexor muscle endurance values during resting jaw and maximum voluntary clenching were 70.06 SD 28.24, and 60.03 SD 16.5, seconds respectively. Mean neck extensor muscle endurance values during resting jaw and maximum voluntary clenching were 105.54 SD 29.9, and 98.32 SD 24.54, respectively. Both values were significantly lower while maximum voluntary clenching as compared to resting jaw position (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Modification of jaw position can affect neck muscle endurance. Results of this study further supports sensory-motor relation between jaw and neck region.