Does the use of protective face masks affect temporomandibular joint function?

Objective: Long-term mask use can trigger or exacerbate various health issues. This prospective experimental study evaluated the impact of protective face masks on masseter muscle activity and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) function reported by participants.

Methods: This prospective, experimental tudy was conducted to investigate the effect of face masks on TMJ function, we used surface electromyography to assess masseter muscle activity at rest, during maximum contraction of the masseter muscle, and while reading a text.

Comparison of the effects of orthoses on hallux valgus angle and plantar pressure in individuals with hallux valgus.

Background: Hallux valgus (HV) is a condition characterized by the lateral deviation of the first phalanx and medial deviation of the first metatarsal, leading to subluxation of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Various orthotic applications are employed in the treatment of HV deformity. This study aimed to compare the effects of a toe separator (TS) and dynamic orthosis (DO) on hallux valgus angle (HVA), plantar pressure (PP), and quality of life (QoL).

Effect of short-term spinal orthosis and insoles application on cobb angle, plantar pressure and balance in individuals with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

Background: Spinal orthosis applications are preferred for conservative treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, and holistic biomechanical approaches are recommended.

Methods: This was single-blind, prospective, randomized, controlled study. It included 42 patients (29 females/13 males) aged 10-18 years with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, Cobb angle of 20°-45°, who were deemed suitable for spinal orthosis use.

A randomized controlled study of the effect of functional exercises on postural kyphosis: Schroth-based three-dimensional exercises versus postural corrective exercises.

Purpose: To compare the effects of postural corrective and Schroth-based three-dimensional exercises on thoracic kyphosis angle (TKA), lumbar lordosis angle (LLA), balance and quality of life (QoL) in individuals with postural kyphosis.

Methods: This was a single-blind randomized controlled clinical trial with a total of 63 subjects (57 women, 6 men) with TKA of 40°. Subjects were separated into three groups: postural corrective exercise group (PCEG), Schroth-based three-dimensional exercise group (SBEG) and control group (CG).