Body Awareness Therapy to reduce jaw pain and improve jaw function in temporomandibular joint disorder
A Randomized, Single-Blind Controlled Trial Investigating the Effect of Body Awareness Therapy on Pain, Functional Outcomes, and Psychosocial Parameters in Adults With Temporomandibular Joint Disorders
This trial will try Body Awareness Therapy in adults with TMD to reduce jaw pain, improve jaw function, and ease stress and anxiety.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 52 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Recep Tayyip Erdogan University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Rize) |
| Trial ID | NCT07317570 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This is a randomized, single-blind trial comparing a structured Body Awareness Therapy (BAT) program to standard physiotherapy in adults with temporomandibular joint disorders. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive BAT or standard physiotherapy and undergo baseline and post-intervention assessments. Primary outcomes include pain intensity and jaw functional limitation, while secondary outcomes measure body awareness, anxiety, stress, and quality of life. Interventions are delivered in-person at the trial site and follow a defined treatment schedule.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults aged 18–65 diagnosed with TMD by the DC/TMD who have had orofacial pain or jaw functional limitation for at least three months and can attend in-person therapy sessions are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Individuals with recent jaw trauma or surgery, systemic rheumatologic/inflammatory disorders, major psychiatric or cognitive disorders, or urgent dental conditions are excluded and may not benefit from this intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, BAT could reduce jaw pain, improve jaw movement, and improve emotional well-being and quality of life for people with TMD.
How similar studies have performed: Related mind-body and somatic physiotherapy approaches have shown promising but limited results in small studies for TMD and orofacial pain, with few large randomized trials specifically testing BAT.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Adults aged 18-65 years. Diagnosed with Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD) according to the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD). Experiencing orofacial pain or jaw functional limitation for at least the past 3 months. Ability to understand and follow verbal instructions required for Body Awareness Therapy sessions. Willingness to participate in the study and to attend all assessment and intervention sessions. Providing written informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: History of jaw trauma, fracture, or surgery within the past 6 months. Presence of systemic rheumatologic or inflammatory disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis) that may affect TMJ function. Neurological or psychiatric conditions that could interfere with participation or outcome assessments (e.g., major psychiatric disorder, cognitive impairment). Severe dental or orthodontic conditions requiring immediate treatment (e.g., acute infection, ongoing orthodontic procedures). Use of occlusal splints, bite guards, or other TMJ-related interventions initiated within the past 3 months. Participation in any other physiotherapy or exercise program targeting the jaw, cervical spine, or posture during the study period. Pregnancy, due to potential changes in joint laxity and pain perception. Current use of medications affecting neuromuscular or pain responses, such as muscle relaxants, corticosteroids, or neuropathic pain medications (unless dose has been stable for 3 months). Any contraindication to performing light-to-moderate physical activity or awareness-based exercises. Inability to attend scheduled therapy sessions or complete study assessments.
Where this trial is running
Rize
- Guneysu Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation School — Rize, Turkey (Türkiye) (Recruiting)
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.