The effects of cervical stabilisation exercises on craniomandibular neuromuscular function and muscle activity in young women with sleep bruxism

Abstract

Purpose: Sleep Bruxism (SB) is recognised as repetitive masticatory muscle activity rather than adisorder, yet its musculoskeletal consequences remain clinically relevant. Cervical stabilisationexercises (CSE) may influence masticatory neuromuscular regulation through trigeminocervicalconvergence. This study investigated the effects of a six-week CSE programme on masticatory andcervical area in individuals with SB.Methods: Twenty-eight female participants (aged 18–30) were randomised to experimental orcontrol groups, with assessments at baseline, post-intervention and at six-week follow-up. Surfaceelectromyography recorded resting and working activity of the masseter, temporalis and trapeziusmuscles. Tongue pressure, maximum mouth opening, tongue range of motion ratio, head postureand sleep quality were secondary outcomes.Results: Significant reductions in masticatory and cervical resting muscle activity were observed,alongside improvements in tongue performance and head posture. Sleep quality remainedunchanged.Conclusions: These findings suggest CSE may contribute to the neuromuscular regulation of thestomatognathic system as a complementary musculoskeletal approach in SB management.