Objective: To analyze the electromyographic activity (EMG) and thermographic patterns of the masseter and temporalis muscles and pressure of the orofacial tissues in individuals with intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD).
Methods: This study had two distinct groups: with IDD (n = 16) and controls (n = 16). EMG at rest, protrusion, right and left laterality, and maximum voluntary contraction were evaluated. Tongue, orbicularis oris, and buccinator muscles pressures were measured by Iowa Oral Performance Instrument. The thermographic patterns were analyzed using infrared thermography.
Results: Comparisons between groups showed significant differences regarding at rest [right (p = 0.05) and left (p = 0.05) masseter and right temporal (p = 0.05)], orofacial tissue pressure [tongue (p = 0.001), orbicularis oris (p = 0.01), and buccinator (p = 0.0001)], but no significant differences for the thermographic patterns.
Conclusion: IDD modifies the functionality of the craniomandibular complex, influencing the performance of the stomatognathic system.
Keywords: Degenerative disease; infrared thermography; intervertebral discs; muscle strength; myoelectric activity; spine; stomatognathic system.