Comparing Mulligan and Maitland mobilization for TMJ hypomobility
Official title: Effects of Mulligan Mobilization in Comparison With Maitland Mobilization in Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction
Run by Foundation University Islamabad · NCT07328269 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project will test whether Mulligan or Maitland joint mobilization better reduces pain and improves jaw movement in adults with TMJ hypomobility.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 19 Years to 44 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Foundation University Islamabad Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Islamabad, Punjab Province) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 5, 2025 |
| Main results expected | December 30, 2025 |
| Study ends | January 5, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | January 9, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07328269 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a 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.
✕Probably 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.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: 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.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
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Foundation University College of Physical Therapy
Islamabad, Punjab Province, Pakistan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Mah Noor
- Email: mahnoorbasharat33@gmail.com
- Phone: +92310-5351360
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.