Body Awareness Therapy to reduce jaw pain and improve jaw function in temporomandibular joint disorder

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

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.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

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 it's running

• Guneysu Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation School
  Rize, Turkey (Türkiye) Recruiting

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.