Relationship between temporomandibular joints, body posture, and body balanceas a neurophysiological mechanismand myofascial biotensegrity: a systematic review
Year: 2026
Type: review
Study design: Systematic Review
Abstract: Introduction: The relationship between temporomandibular joints (TMJs) and body posture remains a subject of multidisciplinary debate due to the complexity of its underlying mechanisms and inconsistent findings across studies. The aim of this study was to systematically review the association between TMJs and body posture. Methods: The review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. The literature search was conducted in 2 stages. In the first stage, studies published between January 2010 and February 2021 were identified in the PubMed / Medline database; in the second stage, an updated search covering the period of 2021–2025 was performed in the PubMed / Medline and Scopus databases. Results: A total of 899 records were identified. After screening and eligibility assessment, 30 randomized controlled trials were included in the qualitative synthesis. Most of them were rated as moderate‑to‑high quality. The results indicate a relationship between temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) and cervical spine dysfunctions, whereas evidence regarding the influence of TMJ function on overall body posture and postural balance remains limited and inconsistent, highlighting a need for further high‑quality research in this area. Conclusions: The coexistence of TMDs and cervical dysfunctions is supported by current evidence, while the relationship between TMJs and global body posture requires further high‑quality research.
DOI: 10.20452/jjpp.17520
Institution: Jagiellonian University
Language: English
Subfield: Complementary and Manual Therapy
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
OpenAlex ID: W7224911047