What this study is
Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are commonly managed with non-invasive interventions such as manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, relaxation techniques, and patient education. Core strengthening (also known as abdominal strengthening) is a fundamental element of physical therapy that engages deep and superficial trunk musculature to enhance postural control and functional performance. Protocols such as the Shirley Sahrmann progression have demonstrated increased activation of key core stabilizing muscles. Emerging evidence suggests a potential relationship between core stability training and reductions in TMD-related pain, though improvements in functional outcomes remain inconclusive. Biomechanical links between the pelvic floor, spine, and temporomandibular joint further support the rationale for core-focused interventions. Nevertheless, few studies have isolated the effects of core strengthening on TMD symptomatology. This study seeks to determine whether the integration of core stability exercises into TMD management can reduce pain, improve function, and enhance quality of life.
What's being tested
- Experimental: Group 1: Core Strengthening
Intervention · BEHAVIORAL
Participants perform Shirley Sahrmann core exercises (5 progressive levels maintaining neutral spine and deep core activation), possibly adding upper extremity movements. Standard TMD PT includes jaw exercises, manual therapy, soft tissue mobilization, neuromuscular re-education, and patient education. A home exercise program (~20 min/day) is provided with printed and video instructions.
- Group 2: Standard TMD PT
Intervention · BEHAVIORAL
Participants receive standard TMD PT including jaw exercises (Rocabado 6x6), manual therapy for TMJ and cervical spine, soft tissue mobilization, neuromuscular re-education to improve jaw mechanics, and education on jaw positioning, diet/chewing modifications, and parafunctional habits. A home exercise program is provided as part of treatment.
Study details
- Official title
- A Randomized Trial Analyzing the Effects of Core Strengthening Exercises in Physical Therapy for Treating Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction
- Sponsor
- Loyola University
- Conditions
- Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction · TMD · TMJ Internal Derangement · Myofascial Pain
- Enrolling
- 50 people
- Starts
- 2025-11-01
- Est. completion
- 2027-01-31
- Design
- Single-blind, randomized, parallel groups
- Record
- View on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗
Who can join
Age 18 Years – 80 YearsSex ALLHealthy volunteers Not acceptedYou may qualify if
- Who Can Participate (Inclusion Criteria):
- Adults between 18 and 70 years old.
- Have had jaw pain or problems with the jaw joint (TMD) in the last 30 days.
- Able and willing to attend at least six physical therapy sessions over three months.
- Speak English or have access to a qualified interpreter.
- Able to safely do physical exercises.
- Who Cannot Participate (Exclusion Criteria):
- Recently had surgery on the jaw, teeth, or spine (within the last 3 months).
- Recently had head or neck injuries or certain neurological problems (such as dizziness, double vision, trouble swallowing, or sudden falls).
- Are pregnant or become pregnant during the study.
- Currently doing physical therapy for other movement problems that could affect the study.
- Have had lower back or pelvic health issues in the last 3 months.
- Currently receiving chemotherapy or radiation for cancer in the head, neck, pelvis, spine, or hip.
- Wear dentures or cannot safely perform exercises.
Sign in and we'll check these against your records.Full criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗
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Study locations (1)
1 openLoyola University Medical Center
Maywood, Illinois, United States
- Dr. Margaret Miller, MD · Contact(888) 584-7888Margaret.Miller001@luhs.org
- Dr. Margaret Miller, MD · ContactMargaret.Miller001@luhs.org
Study team
Sponsor
Loyola University
Study ID 219911
Frequently asked questions
The sponsor hasn't published answers to common questions for this trial.