Intra-Oral and Peri-Stomal Changes Engendered by Evolution of Orthograde Posture and Bipedal Gait

Arunachalam Kumar

doi:10.4172/2471-8726.1000101

Abstract

This overview attempts to explore the much neglected changes taking place in the head and neck regions of the biped hominid. The changes, especially in the oral and peri-stomal areas have not received the attention they deserve. An attempt is made here to describe and discuss the anatomical adaptations brought about by the shift from a quadruped to biped posture and gait. Metrical and morphological alterations in the functional anatomy of the maxilla, mandible, dentition and the cranial base are focused on. Without these crucial adaptations erect posture and biped gait may well be compromised or rendered ineffective

Highlights

Evolutionary biologists, kinesiologists and physical anthropologists have for long made the post cranial skeleton as core of their research
While the primary focus of evolutionary anthropological study has remained in the post cranial regions, much adaptive change in the head and neck regions brought about by orthograde posture and biped gait [1,2]
The higher the degree of digital dexterity involved in the performance of manual tasks, the more striking is the involuntary reaction of orofacial muscles to the level of concentration the task requires

Summary

Introduction

Evolutionary biologists, kinesiologists and physical anthropologists have for long made the post cranial skeleton as core of their research. The metrical and morphological changes in bone and musculo-ligament size, shape and disposition that accompanied shift from a quadruped to biped gait are analysed and explained. While the primary focus of evolutionary anthropological study has remained in the post cranial regions, much adaptive change in the head and neck regions brought about by orthograde posture and biped gait [1,2]. The review touches on the oral appurtenances as a proto-limb, undergoing change and adaptation to the needs of biped evolution by reducing in dimensions, shifting weights, developing pneumatism, minimizing size and shape of teeth, altering cervical joint configurations and altering the entire biomechanical balance of the head [3,4,5,6,7]

Discussion

Conclusions