Frequency and severity of temporomandibular disorders symptoms in Crossfit® practitioners: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Weight lifting has been associated with teeth clenching and, consequently, the predisposition to temporomandibular disorder (TMD). Even though CrossFit® is a modality that works with weight lifting, no papers were found that investigated TMD in its practitioners. OBJECTIVE: To estimate the frequency and severity of temporomandibular disorders symptoms in CrossFit® practitioners and to verify whether there is a relation between participation in competitions or this sport practice time. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study, approved by the Research Ethics Committee from Faculdades Integradas de Jaú (CAAE 91712418.3.0000.5427), conducted in the three CrossFit® boxes that exists in the city. Male practitioners, between 20 and 40 years old, were assessed using Fonseca Anamnesic Index. The outcome variables were: symptom score and degree of TDM severity, as well participation in competitions and sport practice time. RESULTS: Regarding the 52 research participants, 40.4% have TMD symptoms. Out of these, 38.4% show mild and 2.0% moderate TMD. No statistical difference was found comparing practice time or competitors and non-competitors. CONCLUSION: The frequency of TMD symptoms in CrossFit® practitioners is 40.4%. The predominant degree of severity was mild. No relation was found between the increased incidence and the modality practice time, or the fact of being a competitor.