Evaluation of the correlation between unilateral chewing and postural deviations

Abstract

The objective of this study is to describe the head posture and postural deviations in individuals with unilateral chewing. The sample was composed of 31 individuals of both sexes aged between 7 and 17 years old, who presented median line deviation and predominant unilateral mastication. The evaluation was made by three professionals (a speech therapist, a physiotherapist and a dentist) through a postural exam, where the patient is placed on a symmetrograph in an erect position: the head in position of repose, eyes fixed on the horizon, arms along the body, and feet physiologically positioned. Each patient was analyzed under frontal, sagittal, and lateral planes, in search for an eventual lateral deviation of the spine. Additionally, the posture was analyzed in photographs and videos, where body movement was recorded. After clinical analyses, a segmenting radiographic study of the spinal column was conducted. Results showed a high prevalence of head rotation towards the chewing side and lateral flexion towards the opposite side. Also, forward head posture (anteroposition) and scoliotic attitude were found. The X-rays confirmed a high prevalence of scoliosis with no association to the chewing side. The data suggest that children and adolescents with unilateral mastication present some postural deviation.