Plantar Pressure Variations Induced by Experimental Malocclusion-A Pilot Case Series Study.

Background: All body systems involved in ensuring a healthy posture (musculoskeletal system, oculomotor, oto-vestibular and occluso-cranial-mandibular) are essential in maintaining postural balance.

Research Question: Does experimental malocclusion in subjects in static position determine variations in plantar pressure?

Methods: Overall, 31 subjects were included in the study. The plantar pressure was evaluated in five different points: lateral and medial heel, midfoot, 1st and 5th metatarsal area. Using a specially designed splint, an artificial malocclusion was induced on the right hemimandibular arch. The pressure was measured at 0 (T0), 15 (T1) and 30 min (T2) after splint application.

Results: The right external plantar sensors recorded statistically significant differences in pressure values after 15 min of splint wear (5th metatarsal area, = 0.05; midfoot, = 0.04). Important pressure values were also recorded by the left internal plantar sensors (1st metatarsal, = 0.01; medial heel, = 0.006), after 30 min of splint wear.

Conclusions: Asymmetrical experimental malocclusion produces early changes in plantar pressure, a proof of compensatory mechanisms induced by secondary postural imbalance.