The Role of Posturography in the Diagnosis of Temporomandibular Disorders and Their Impact on Body Posture

<b>Background</b>: Posturography is a diagnostic method used to evaluate postural stability by recording body sway and the distribution of pressure on the ground. Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) involve musculoskeletal and neuromuscular dysfunctions affecting the temporomandibular joint, masticatory muscles, and associated structures. Given the anatomical and functional connections between the stomatognathic system and postural control mechanisms, this study aimed to assess whether TMDs influence body posture and balance as measured by posturographic parameters. <b>Methods</b>: 75 volunteers, aged 19-48, were included. The TMD group (<i>n</i> = 45) was diagnosed based on the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD), and the control group (<i>n</i> = 30) showed no signs of TMD. All participants underwent posturographic assessment and jaw opening range measurement. Posturography was performed using a pressure platform that recorded the center of pressure (COP) in static conditions. Postural stability was assessed using the Romberg test with eyes open and closed. <b>Results</b>: No statistically significant differences were found between the TMD and control groups in COP parameters, including ellipse area (EA) and total load distribution. Within both groups, COP sway increased significantly in the eyes-closed (EC) condition, as reflected by a greater unsteadiness length (UL). In contrast, EA was larger in the eyes-open (EO) condition in both groups, indicating a wider but more controlled spatial dispersion of COP. Intra-group analysis further revealed a significantly higher load on the left side in the control group only. <b>Conclusions</b>: The results do not support a significant postural imbalance in individuals with TMD compared to healthy controls. However, increased sway with eyes closed suggests that visual input plays a key role in postural control, regardless of TMD status.