Association Between Periodontal Diseases and Chronic Neck Pain and Functional Disability Evaluation

Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the tissues supporting the teeth, and has been increasingly linked to systemic inflammatory processes that may contribute to musculoskeletal pain conditions. Chronic non-specific neck pain is a common musculoskeletal complaint with a multifactorial etiology, and inflammatory mechanisms have been proposed as one potential contributing pathway. This cross-sectional study aims to evaluate the association between periodontal disease status and chronic non-specific neck pain and related functional disability. Participants will undergo a periodontal examination, including assessment of gingival index, plaque index, bleeding on probing, probing depth, and radiographic bone loss, and will be classified into periodontal health categories according to the 2017 World Workshop classification of periodontal and peri-implant diseases and conditions. Neck pain intensity and functional disability will be assessed using validated outcome measures. Associations between periodontal disease severity and neck pain/disability outcomes will be examined, along with potential confounding factors. Findings from this study may contribute to a better understanding of the relationship between oral health and musculoskeletal health, and may inform future interdisciplinary approaches to patient assessment and care.