Orthopedic diagnostic tests for temporomandibular and cervical spine disorders

Abstract

The interexaminer reliability of six orthopedic tests, applied to the masticatory system, was determined in a group of 79 patients with signs and/or symptoms of TMD. Multitest Scores were composed for each test and combinations of tests for the three main symptoms of TMD, namely, pain, joint sounds, and restriction of movement. Although the tests showed different reliability scores, the reliability of detecting these three main symptoms of TMD was satisfactory. All the tests contributed to the diagnostic process, with active movements being the most powerful test. The combination of active movements, passive movements, and palpation provided valuable diagnostic information. Other tests could be used for specific diagnostic problems. The scores of the orthopedic tests applied to the neck show that extension and flexion can be evaluated most reliably with active movements and by assessing end feel. The interexaminer agreement for recording pain was also satisfactory for flexion and extension. The interexaminer reliability of the tests recording pain and end feel in the shoulder girdle was moderate for anteflexion.