Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Journal of Stomatology, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, cilt.127, sa.5, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
Objectives: This randomised clinical trial aims to compare the effectiveness of cervical core stabilization, Rocabado's protocol and their combination on musculoskeletal and psychosocial outcomes in female patients with myogenic temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). Materials and Methods: 59 female patients with myogenic TMDs were allocated to three groups; Rocabado's exercises, cervical core stabilization, or a combined protocol. All interventions were performed over and eight-week period. Primary outcomes were pain intensity, pressure pain thresholds (PPT), mandibular and cervical range of motion, craniovertebral angle, and deep cervical flexor endurance. Additionally, jaw functional limitation, neck disability, and psychological distress were assessed. All measures were assessed at baseline and post-intervention. Results: In within-group comparisons of all groups, statistically significant improvements were observed in almost all outcomes, including pain, PPT, mandibular and cervical mobility, and craniovertebral angle (p < 0.05). In between-group comparisons, the Rocabado exercises and cervical core stabilization exercises group showed a significantly greater reduction in night-time pain intensity and craniovertebral angle compared to the combined group (p < 0.05). NDI and left temporal muscle PPT results were statistically significantly different in the combined group compared to others (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Cervical core stabilization was as effective as the Rocabado's protocol in myogenic TMDs, The combined protocol may provide additional benefits in some outcomes. Adding cervical core stabilization exercises to standard physiotherapy protocols may provide further benefits for myogenic TMD rehabilitation. Clinical Relevance: Targeting cervical motor control in addition to mandibular exercises may improve pain, function and psyhcosocial outcomes in patients with myogenic temporomandibular disorders, supporting a multidimensional approach in dental and physiotherapy practice.