Association of generalized joint hypermobility with history, signs, and symptoms of temporomandibular joint dysfunction in children.

This study determined the prevalence of signs and symptoms of temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD) in children with and without generalized joint hypermobility (GJH). Twenty children with GJH, ages 4-19, and 20 age- and sex-matched control children completed a TMD signs/symptoms history and underwent an examination consisting of palpation of the joints and associated musculature for tenderness, clicking, or crepitation. Children with historical or clinical findings were designated positive for TMD signs/symptoms. Maximum vertical opening, expressed as a percentage of lower facial height, and maximum mandibular lateral excursion (in mm) were recorded. Fifteen (75%) of the GJH participants and ten (50%) of the controls were positive for TMD findings. There were statistically significant differences between the groups for the presence of total positive findings (P < 0.001) and for responses to palpation of muscle or joint (P = 0.03). There were no significant differences in positive responses to the history alone, joint palpation alone, or muscle palpation alone. There were no significant differences between the groups in jaw excursions. This study suggests that children with GJH may be more likely to demonstrate some signs and symptoms of TMD than children with normal joint mobility.