Transformation of Trigeminal Nerve Stimuli into Movement Disorders: A Series of Cases

Many movement disorders are classified as genetic, idiopathic, or from some type of trauma, and then are further designated to originate in the brain, brainstem, or basal ganglia. Seldom are they thought to originate within the masticatory system. As in Chap. 10, the author theorizes that the problem with some of these movements and/or movement disorders begins in the stomatognathic system, particularly the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and related to the trigeminal nerve (CN5). We will present case studies of patients that have had their TMJ/CN5 traumatized and possibly be the origin of their movement disorder.