Using light therapy to treat jaw joint issues
Internal Photobiomodulation For Management Of Temporomandibular Joint Internal Derangement: A Randomized Clinical Trial
This study is testing whether internal or external light therapy can help people with painful jaw joint issues feel better and improve their jaw function.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Ages | 20 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Alexandria Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Alexandria) |
| Trial ID | NCT06763419 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to compare the effectiveness of internal and external photobiomodulation (PBM) therapies in managing patients with temporomandibular joint internal derangements (TMJ-ID). Participants will receive either internal or external low-level laser therapy to assess pain relief and functional improvement. The study focuses on individuals experiencing painful clicking in the TMJ area and pain in the lateral pterygoid muscle, while excluding those with certain dental or systemic conditions. The goal is to determine which method provides better outcomes for patients suffering from TMJ disorders.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals with painful clicking in the TMJ area and pain in the lateral pterygoid muscle who have a full set of natural teeth.
Not a fit: Patients with degenerative TMJ conditions, recent trauma, or systemic diseases may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could offer a non-invasive treatment option for patients suffering from TMJ disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While there is ongoing research in photobiomodulation, this specific comparison of internal versus external methods is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Painful click at temporomandibular joint (TMJ) area. * Pain at the lateral pterygoid muscle. * Presence of full or nearly full complement of natural teeth with acceptable occlusion Exclusion Criteria: * Patients who have radiographic evidence of degenerative conditions of TMJ. * Patients under current dental or physical therapy that could affect TMD. * History of recent trauma. * The presence of systemic diseases (i.e. rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis). * Pregnant and lactating females. * Presence of open bite.
Where this trial is running
Alexandria
- Faculty of Dentistry — Alexandria, Egypt (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Nermeen Rady, PhD — Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University, Egypt
- Study coordinator: Mariam Bahgat, PhD
- Email: mariam.amin@alexu.edu.eg
- Phone: +20 12 22882107
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.