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Journal of Dental Research
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Biological

Functional Activity of Superior Head of Human Lateral Pterygoid Muscle during Isometric Force

S. Ruangsri1, T. Whittle2, K. Wanigaratne2 and G.M. Murray2,*

1 Faculty of Dentistry, Khonkaen University, Mittraphab Rd., Muang, Khonkaen, 40002 Thailand, and Faculty of Dentistry, University of Sydney; and
2 Jaw Function and Orofacial Pain Research Unit, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Sydney, Level 3, Professorial Unit, Centre for Oral Health, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia;

Correspondence: * corresponding author, gregm{at}usyd.edu.au

There is controversy as to the jaw tasks for which the superior head of the human lateral pterygoid muscle (SHLP) becomes active. The aim was to describe the functional activities of SHLP single motor units (SMUs) during horizontal isometric force tasks. In 11 subjects, 48 SMUs were recorded from computer-tomography-verified SHLP sites during generation of horizontal isometric force in the contralateral (CL), protrusive (P), and ipsilateral (IL) directions and intermediate directions (CL-P, IL-P). In eight subjects, SHLP SMUs were active in CL, CL-P, and P. Qualitatively, SHLP EMG activity increased with increased isometric force. Forty-two SMUs were active in directions other than IL; 6 exhibited activity at IL and other directions. The similarity of these data to previous human lateral pterygoid (IHLP) data supports the notion that SHLP and IHLP should be regarded as a single muscle, with activities shaded according to the biomechanical demands of the task.

Key Words: isometric force • computer tomography • single motor unit • lateral pterygoid muscle • electromyogram

Journal of Dental Research, Vol. 84, No. 6, 548-553 (2005)
DOI: 10.1177/154405910508400612
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