The Effect of a Single Temporomandibular Joint Soft Tissue Therapy on Cervical Spine Mobility, Temporomandibular Joint Mobility, Foot Load Distribution, and Body Balance in Women with Myofascial Pain in the Temporomandibular Joint Area—A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

In contemporary times, a significant portion of the population experiences symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of a single-session TMJ soft tissue therapy on the TMJ and cervical spine mobility as well as on body balance and the foot load distribution. This study was a parallel-group, randomized, controlled trial with a 1:1 allocation ratio. Fifty women aged 20–30 years diagnosed with myofascial pain in the TMJ area were included in the study and divided into two groups. The experimental group received TMJ soft tissue therapy. The following research tools were used: a Hogetex electronic caliper, a CROM Deluxe, and a FreeMed Base pedobarographic platform. In the experimental group, an increase in mobility within all assessed jaw and cervical spine movements was observed. This change was statistically significant (p < 0.05) for lateral movement to the left, abduction, and protrusion of the jaw (an increase of 10.32%, 7.07%, and 20.92%, respectively) and for extension, lateral bending to the right and left, and rotation to the right and left, of the cervical spine (an increase of 7.05%, 7.89%, 10.44%, 4.65%, and 6.55%, respectively). In the control group, no significant differences were observed. No significant changes were observed in the load distribution and body balance assessment. A single session of TMJ soft tissue therapy increases jaw and cervical spine mobility but does not impact body balance or foot load distribution in static conditions in women diagnosed with myofascial pain in the TMJ area.

Keywords

• temporomandibular joint
• cervical spine mobility
• foot load distribution
• body balance