Posture, TMD, Breathing and Autonomic Function – Neuromuscular Dentistry Treatment Considerations
by Clayton A. Chan, DDS
Considerable evidence has shown that posture effects physiology and all human function (both consciously and unconsciously). The significant influences of posture on the overall health and well-being of the human is not well addressed by most physicians, neither is a comprehensive postural and structural evaluation a part of the training in physical diagnosis. Within the dental profession, jaw posture, temporomandibular joint posture, cervical/neck and head posture are also highly overlooked and not considered in the diagnostic process of the musculoksletal, TMD, cranio-facial pain patient.
Posture effects breathing as well as thinking. It has been recognized that postural affects and modulates every physiologic function from breathing to horomonal production. Ineffecient posture of the jaw (a significant component of the postural chain) and poor breathing habits eventually result in pathologic dysfunction of the complete body system. The following are the most easily influnced by posture:
- Spinal pain
- Headaches
- Mood
- Blood pressure
- Pulse
- Lung capacity
The most significant influences of posture are upon:
- Respiration
- Oxygenation
- Sympathetic function
Homeostatic and autonomic regulation are intimately connected with posture. It has been observed, by trained clinicians that many symptoms, including pain, may be moderated or eliminated by improved posture. Individuals with compromised (advanced stages) of postural/ breathing dysfunction often suffer from structural deviations impeding efficient air exchange and eliciit a sympathetic system stress response as well as increased musculoskeletal pain.
Individuals with deep bites, retruded Class II skeletal/dental cranio to mandibular relationships, deficient vertical dimensions of the lower third of the face, narrow intra oral arch forms will typically present with abnormal swallowing habits, compromised nose breathing ability, forward head posture, and a constellation of musculoskeletal dysfunctions relating to TMJ/TMD symptomologies.
Maximally effecient breathing and posture opens pathways to body-mind balance and improved well-being. The more effectively one breaths, the greater the oxygenation to muscles health and overall body health.
References:
- Lennon, J and Shealy N., et al.: Postural and Respiratory Modulation of Autonomic Function, Pain and Health. AJPM 1994:4:36-39
- Gould WG. Effects of respiratory and postural mechanisms upon action of the vocal cors. Folia Phoniat 1971;2:215.
- Freeman JT. Posture in the aging and aged body. JAMA 1957;165(7):843-846.
- Benson H. The relaxion response. New York: William Morrow and Company 1976.
