Impact of Sedentary Behaviors on Temporomandibular Disorders

Sedentary Behaviors and Their Link to Orofacial Pain

Sedentary behavior, often defined as activities that do not substantially increase energy expenditure and are characterized by prolonged sitting or inactivity, has been linked to various health issues, including musculoskeletal disorders. A systematic analysis of sedentary behaviors has shown that time spent engaging in these behaviors may correlate with the risk of developing or exacerbating TMD (Zhu et al., 2024).

Research indicates that a significant percentage of the adult population experiences TMD symptoms, often linked with high levels of sedentary activities such as prolonged computer use, watching television, and driving (Zhu et al., 2024). These activities can lead to muscle tension and stress on the TMJ, resulting in pain and dysfunction. Importantly, sedentary behaviors can induce postural changes, which can, in turn, affect the alignment and function of the jaw, contributing to the onset of TMD symptoms.

Role of Driving Time in Temporomandibular Disorders Risk

Driving, a common sedentary behavior, has been specifically noted for its potential association with TMD risk. A recent Mendelian randomization study revealed a significant link between driving time and TMD, suggesting that prolonged periods spent behind the wheel may heighten the risk of developing these disorders (Zhu et al., 2024).

The mechanics behind this association may include the static posture maintained during driving, leading to increased muscle tension, particularly in the neck and jaw regions. This tension can promote bruxism (teeth grinding) and exacerbate TMD symptoms, leading to a cycle of pain and discomfort. Furthermore, the stress associated with driving in congested traffic conditions may also contribute to increased muscle tension and TMD risk.

Mechanisms of Sedentary Lifestyle Affecting Jaw Health

Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain how sedentary lifestyles can adversely affect jaw health and contribute to TMD. Sedentary behaviors may lead to:

Muscle Fatigue and Tension: Prolonged inactivity can lead to muscle stiffness and fatigue, particularly in the neck and jaw muscles, which are essential for proper TMJ function.
Postural Misalignment: Sedentary behaviors, particularly those involving screens, often promote poor posture that can adversely affect the cervical spine and jaw alignment, increasing stress on the TMJ (Khan & Tao, 2025).
Increased Stress Levels: Sedentary lifestyles are often associated with higher levels of stress and anxiety, which can lead to bruxism and muscle tension, exacerbating TMD symptoms (Khan & Tao, 2025).
Inflammation: Sedentary behavior has been linked to systemic inflammation, which can affect muscles and joints, including the TMJ, potentially contributing to pain and dysfunction (Ferrillo et al., 2025).

Implications of Sedentary Habits on Muscle Function

Sedentary habits can significantly impair muscle function, particularly in the masticatory muscles. The implications include:

Reduced Muscle Strength: Long periods of inactivity can lead to atrophy and decreased strength in the masticatory muscles, affecting their ability to function properly during chewing and speaking (Zhu et al., 2024).
Altered Muscle Tone: Sedentary lifestyles can lead to imbalances in muscle tone, with some muscles becoming overly tense while others weaken, potentially causing misalignment of the jaw and increasing the risk of developing TMD (Khan & Tao, 2025).
Increased Risk of Pain: The combination of decreased strength and altered muscle tone can increase the risk of musculoskeletal pain, including orofacial pain associated with TMD (Khan & Tao, 2025).

Future Research Directions for Sedentary Behavior and TMD

Given the emerging evidence linking sedentary behaviors with TMD, future research should focus on several key areas:

Longitudinal Studies: Research should aim to establish causal relationships between sedentary behavior and TMD through longitudinal studies that track changes over time.
Interventional Studies: Investigating the effects of reducing sedentary behaviors on TMD symptoms could provide valuable insights into effective management strategies.
Multifactorial Analysis: Future studies should consider the interplay of psychological, physiological, and biomechanical factors in understanding TMD in the context of sedentary lifestyles (Khan & Tao, 2025).
Mechanistic Studies: Further investigation into the underlying mechanisms, including inflammation and muscle function, will help clarify how sedentary behaviors contribute to TMD pathology.

Conclusion

The potential link between sedentary behaviors and temporomandibular disorders presents a new frontier in understanding the multifactorial nature of TMD. By exploring this relationship, healthcare professionals can better address lifestyle factors that may contribute to or exacerbate TMD symptoms, ultimately leading to improved management and treatment strategies.

FAQ

What are the common symptoms of TMD?
Common symptoms include jaw pain, limited jaw movement, clicking or popping sounds during jaw movement, headaches, and facial pain.

How can sedentary behaviors affect my jaw health?
Sedentary behaviors can lead to muscle tension, poor posture, and increased stress, all of which may contribute to the development or worsening of TMD.

What can I do to reduce my risk of developing TMD?
Regular physical activity, maintaining good posture, managing stress effectively, and avoiding prolonged periods of inactivity can help reduce the risk of TMD.

Are there specific sedentary activities that are more harmful?
Activities that involve prolonged sitting in poor posture, such as driving or working at a computer, may be particularly harmful to jaw health.

When should I consult a healthcare professional about TMD?
If you experience persistent jaw pain, difficulty chewing, or other symptoms of TMD, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and management options.

References

Zhu, J., Yuan, X., & Zhang, Y. (2024). The potential association between sedentary behaviors and risk of temporomandibular disorders: evidence from Mendelian randomization analysis. Journal of Oral & Facial Pain and Headache. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.22514/jofph.2024.042
Khan, S., & Tao, F. (2025). Mechanisms for Orofacial Pain: Roles of Immunomodulation, Metabolic Reprogramming, Oxidative Stress and Epigenetic Regulation. Biomedicines. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13020434
Ferrillo, M., et al. (2025). The Role of Botulinum Toxin for Masseter Muscle Hypertrophy: A Comprehensive Review. Toxins. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins17020091