THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CERVICALGIA AND TEMPOROMANDIBULAR DISORDER: PATHOLOGICAL MECHANISMS, DIAGNOSIS, AND INTEGRATED THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES

Abstract

The relationship between temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) and cervicalgia has been increasingly investigated due to the high prevalence of concomitant symptoms in these regions. Evidence suggests that shared neurophysiological mechanisms, such as sensory convergence between the trigeminal and cervical nerves, contribute to the symptomatic overlap. This paper reviews recent literature on pathological mechanisms, diagnostic approaches, and integrated therapies, highlighting the effectiveness of cervical region therapies as a complementary treatment for TMDs.