SEMG activity of masticatory, neck, and trunk muscles during the treatment of scoliosis with functional braces. A longitudinal controlled study

Background: Studies on the relationship between occlusal problems and the spine are of increasing interest. In this study, we monitored the sEMG activity of masticatory, neck, and trunk muscles during the treatment of scoliosis in young patients, and compared the data with a control of untreated group. Subjects and methods: Twelve white Caucasian patients (nine males and three females; mean age of 8.0 ± 1.5. years) with scoliosis and Class I occlusion (without crowding) were included in this study (study group). Fifteen healthy subjects (nine males and six females; mean age of 9.5 ± 0.8. years) were recruited as control group. The subjects were visited before they underwent the treatment of scoliosis, as well as after 3 (T1) and 6. months (T2) of their treatment for scoliosis. The patients were instructed to wear the device during sleep and during the day, according to the protocol given by their orthopedic. Results: The treated group showed statistically significant changes in the sEMG activity of masticatory, neck, and trunk muscles, both at rest and during MVC of the mandible with respect to T0. The masseter and the anterior temporalis showed a significant improvement in the asymmetry index from T0 to T2. On the other hand, subjects in the control group did not register much change. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the use of a functional device for the treatment of scoliosis induces a significant reduction in the asymmetry index of the trunk muscles, as well as a significant increase in the contractility of masticatory muscles.