During the initial phase of mouth opening (before significant forward movement of the condyle), what type of movement occurs at the temporomandibular joint, occurring about the condyle's own transverse axis?

Pure rotation (occurring in the lower joint compartment, about the condyle's own horizontal axis)
Pure translation only, with no rotational component
Lateral excursion only
No movement occurs during initial opening

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Correct answer: A. Pure rotation (occurring in the lower joint compartment, about the condyle's own horizontal axis)

Mouth opening begins with rotation of the condylar head about its own transverse (horizontal) axis within the lower joint compartment (between the condyle and the articular disc). As opening continues further, translation (forward gliding movement of the condyle-disc complex along the articular eminence, occurring in the upper joint compartment) is added to this rotational movement.

Practice Anatomy & Histology questions Anatomy & Histology study notes

During the initial phase of mouth opening (before significant forward movement of the condyle), what type of movement occurs at the temporomandibular joint, occurring about the condyle's own transverse axis?

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