Analysis of cervical movements with accelerometer during gnathological screening: Clinical-Experimental study. (June 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gamba, Laura; Clerici, Chiara; Nota, Alessandro; Tecco, Simona
• Is Part Of: Journal of dentistry. Volume 121(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-06
• Subjects: Gnathology -- Accelerometer -- Cervical spine kinematics; Dentistry -- Periodicals; Dentistry -- Periodicals; Dentisterie -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 617.6005
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jdent.2022.103963
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0300-5712

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: During the gnathological examination, the dentist often evaluates the tract of the cervical spine, for example through the palpation of the cervical and sternocleidomastoid muscles. The accelerometer is an electromedical device that allows the evaluation of the cervical range of motion and speed of execution of the main movements of the head on the neck (rotation, flexion-extension, and lateroflexion). Even though it is a rather simple instrument to use, the correct execution of the examination requires attention from the clinician to check that all the movements of the head are performed correctly and without unwanted movements of the shoulders. No studies have analyzed the repeatability of the tests when performed by dentists. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to analyze the repeatability of acquired cervical movements on a sample of volunteer subjects. Methods: Thirty-two volunteers (mainly dentistry students) were included in the sample. An accurate protocol based on a review of the existing literature was prepared for the standardized execution of the exams. The test was performed twice for each volunteer and the interval between the tests was 2 weeks. Results: The results demonstrate the importance of correct execution of the test and the control of the operator to obtain data reliability. Conclusions: The accelerometer is a medical device that seems promising for a standardized examination of cervical spine kinematics during gnathological screening. It opens new perspectives for an interdisciplinary approach between dentist and physiatrist for craniocervical-mandibular problems.