This study aims to examine the function of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)-the jaw joint-in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Children with CP often experience difficulties in jaw movement, pain, or involuntary grinding of teeth (bruxism), which can affect their ability to eat, speak, or smile comfortably.
The research will investigate how the severity of motor impairment, as classified by the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS), and different CP subtypes are related to jaw function problems. The study also explores the relationship between bruxism and TMJ pain and dysfunction.
By performing clinical evaluations of mouth opening, jaw movements, muscle tenderness, and pain levels, this study hopes to identify early signs of TMJ problems. The goal is to provide better recommendations for early screening, therapy, and rehabilitation for children with CP, especially those with more severe motor impairments.
Who can participate
Age range
6 Years – 18 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Diagnosed with cerebral palsy (CP) by a pediatric neurologist, based on standard clinical criteria.
* Aged between 6 and 18 years.
* Classified as GMFCS Levels I to IV.
* Able to comply with clinical assessment procedures.
* Written informed consent obtained from parent(s) or legal guardian(s). Exclusion Criteria
* GMFCS Level V (due to inability to cooperate with TMJ examination).
* History of craniofacial trauma, surgery, or congenital maxillofacial anomalies.
* Presence of neuromuscular diseases other than cerebral palsy.
* Active temporomandibular joint infection or acute systemic illness at the time of evaluation.
* Ongoing use of muscle relaxants or botulinum toxin injections in the jaw region within the past 6 months.
* Inability to complete the TMJ clinical examination due to behavioral or cognitive limitations.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.