Evaluation of cranio-cervical muscle activity in adolescents with different malocclusions: a pilot surface emg study

Abstract

Aims: This study aimed to investigate potential differences in cranio-cervical muscular activation among adolescents with different types of malocclusion. Methods: This study involved thirty-two adolescents aged 10-15 years, categorized into three groups based on Angle. Angle Class I/control group (n=10), Angle Class II (n=12), and Angle Class III (n=10). Surface electromyography (EMG) was utilized to evaluate the activation levels of the Masseter, Temporalis Anterior, Cervical Erector Spinae, Sternocleidomastoid, and Upper Trapezius muscles. Measurements were obtained during mandibular rest, maximum clenching, and chewing tasks. Results: The surface EMG activity of the Upper Trapezius muscle exhibited significant elevation in participants with Class III malocclusions relative to the other groups (p<0.05). While cranio-cervical muscle activities tended to be higher in the groups of Angle Class II and Class III in comparison to the Angle Class I, these differences did not achieve statistical significance, with the exception of the Upper Trapezius muscle (p>0.05). Conclusion: These findings indicate a link between malocclusion types and modified muscle activation patterns in the cranio-cervical region, specifically involving the Upper Trapezius muscle. Insights into cranio-cervical muscle activity can enhance the comprehensive evaluation of malocclusion effects and provide valuable guidance for orthodontic and rehabilitation interventions.