Monitoring behavioural stress control using a craniomandibular index
Robin M. Shaw, D. M. Dettmar
Australian Dental Journal April 1, 1990 DOI: 10.1111/j.1834-7819.1990.tb05881.x (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Pre-post intervention study Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 25 |
| Population | Adults receiving meditation training, clinically examined for mandibular function |
| Intervention | Transcendental meditation |
| Duration | 3 months |
| Measures | craniomandibular index (CMI) |
| Citations | 5 |
| Key points | After three months of transcendental meditation practice, group craniomandibular index scores changed significantly from baseline, which the authors interpret as deep relaxation alleviating intramuscular tension and fatigue and promoting balanced, coordinated muscle function. |
Abstract
This study was concerned with the practical value of relaxation training in helping an individual reduce anxiety and its physical manifestations. Twenty-five subjects learned and practised transcendental meditation for a period of three months. Subjects were clinically examined before and after meditation training, and a craniomandibular index (CMI) was used to objectively assess criteria pertaining to mandibular function. Baseline and outcome CMI scores were compared for the group and shown to be significantly different. Deep relaxation achieved through transcendental meditation alleviated intramuscular tension and fatigue, promoting balanced, co-ordinated muscle function.