Comparison of the masticatory electromyographic pattern between futsal players and sedentary individuals

Abstract

Objective: to compare the electromyographic activity of the masseter and temporal muscles during laterality and protrusion movements in futsal players and sedentary individuals. Methodology: a cross-sectional study was conducted with 20 volunteers (10 futsal athletes and 10 sedentary individuals) aged between 17 and 30 years. Surface electromyographic activity (EMGs) was recorded during right laterality (RL), left laterality (LL), and protrusion (P). Data were analyzed using the Friedman test (p < 0.05). Results: the futsal group did not show significant differences in muscle activation between movements. In the sedentary group, there was a significant difference in the right temporalis (p=0.04) and right masseter (p=0.02), with greater activation in LL compared to RL. In the intergroup comparison, the right temporalis showed a significant difference (p=0.05). Conclusion: futsal athletes have a more homogeneous and stable neuromuscular activation pattern, while sedentary individuals exhibit greater asymmetry and variability in mandibular movements.