Comparing Mulligan and Maitland mobilization for TMJ hypomobility
Effects of Mulligan Mobilization in Comparison With Maitland Mobilization in Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction
NA · Foundation University Islamabad · NCT07328269
This project will test whether Mulligan or Maitland joint mobilization better reduces pain and improves jaw movement in adults with TMJ hypomobility.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 19 Years to 44 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Foundation University Islamabad (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Islamabad, Punjab Province) |
| Trial ID | NCT07328269 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This randomized controlled trial will enroll 30 adults with TMJ hypomobility and myofascial pain and randomly assign them to receive either Mulligan or Maitland mobilization. Treatments are delivered over two weeks in six sessions and include lateral, anterior, medial, and distraction glides combined with Rocabado's 6x6 exercises and myofascial release of masseter and temporalis. Outcomes (pain by NPRS and jaw mobility by millimeter ruler) are measured at baseline, after the third session, and at the end of week two. The trial uses purposive sampling and standard manual-therapy protocols to compare short-term pain and range-of-motion effects between the two techniques.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults aged 19–44 with TMJ hypomobility diagnosed by DC/TMD-based criteria, myofascial pain with NRS >5 and palpation tenderness in masticatory/neck muscles are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People with TMJ hypermobility, active rheumatic or inflammatory disease, recent facial/head/cervical trauma, pregnancy, recent TMJ treatment, neurological disorders, or medications affecting the musculoskeletal system may not benefit or be excluded.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If effective, the preferred mobilization approach could reduce jaw pain and improve mouth opening and daily function for people with TMJ hypomobility.
How similar studies have performed: Manual mobilization techniques like Mulligan and Maitland have shown benefits in other musculoskeletal conditions and small studies suggest potential for TMD, but high-quality direct comparisons for TMJ are limited.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria * Age 19-44 years. * Both Genders (Male and Female). * Patients diagnosed with TMJ hypomobility using the Manual Functional Analysis questionnaire based on DC/TMD criteria. * Individuals with myofascial pain, scoring above 5 on the NRS and pain upon palpation of at least two of eight masticatory and neck muscles. * Subjects with acute TMD and myofascial pain unrelated to active inflammation, infection, or recent trauma for at least six months. Exclusion criteria * Hypermobility of TMJs. * Pregnancy. * History of rheumatic and inflammatory diseases. * A history of temporomandibular disorders treatment within last three months. * Acute trauma or injuries of face, head or cervical spine, neurological disorders, taking medication that could affect the musculoskeletal system.
Where this trial is running
Islamabad, Punjab Province
- Foundation University College of Physical Therapy — Islamabad, Punjab Province, Pakistan (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Mah Noor
- Email: mahnoorbasharat33@gmail.com
- Phone: +92310-5351360
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.
Conditions: Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction, Hypomobility, Mulligan Mobilization, Maitland Mobilization