Evaluation of the effectiveness of a home exercise program in patients with temporomandibular joint disc displacement...

The effectiveness of exercise therapy in temporomandibular disorders treatment has been proven, but the heterogeneity of the data and the lack of analysis of subgroup data are noted as shortcomings. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a home exercise program in individuals with temporomandibular joint disc displacement with reduction (DDWR).

Forty participants diagnosed with DDWR were included in the study. The participants were divided into two groups: a study group and a control group. The study group received a home exercise program and patient education. The control group only received patient education. All participants were assessed at the beginning of the study and after completing the four-week program. Participants' mandibular range of motion was measured with a caliper, and their pain intensity was measured with a numerical pain scale. The Mandibular Impairment Questionnaire was used to assess mandibular function.

The mean age of the participants (F:38, M:2) was 33. The home exercise group had statistically significant improvements in all parameters after treatment (p < 0.05). In the patient education group, decreases in pain intensity during rest and activity (p = 0.004, p = 0.012), increases in right lateral deviation (p = 0.026), and improvements in mandibular functional capacity (p = 0.019). were statistically significant after treatment. When examining the differences between the groups, greater improvements were observed in all parameters except resting pain intensity in the exercise group (p < 0.05).

A home exercise program for individuals with DDWR is effective in reducing pain intensity, increasing mandibular range of motion, and improving mandibular function.