Craniocervical System, Temporomandibular Joint Disorders and Ergonomics

Abstract

In general sense, ergonomics aims to fit the life according to people and contains all applications done to design appropriate working and living conditions. Ergonomics targets to reduce the physical and psychosocial problems that may occur as a result of the interaction between the human, equipment and environment. Ergonomics education reduces the musculoskeletal diseases among the computer users. The functional disorders of the cervical spine are also associated with temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Postural disorders often increase the incidence of TMD, therefore, the general postural assessment is important in preventing the TMD. Holding the phone between the shoulder and the ear for a long time, using a computer in a wrong position and also the forward head posture influence the temporomandibular joint. Future studies need to be conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of ergonomics in preventing TMD. Turk J Phys Med Rehab 2010;56 Suppl 1:53-6.