Effects of Core Strengthening Exercises for Treating TMD (NCT07226505) | Clinical Trial Compass
Not Yet RecruitingNot Applicable
Effects of Core Strengthening Exercises for Treating TMD
United States50 participantsStarted 2025-11-01
Plain-language summary
Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are commonly managed with non-invasive interventions such as manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, relaxation techniques, and patient education. Core strengthening (also known as abdominal strengthening) is a fundamental element of physical therapy that engages deep and superficial trunk musculature to enhance postural control and functional performance. Protocols such as the Shirley Sahrmann progression have demonstrated increased activation of key core stabilizing muscles. Emerging evidence suggests a potential relationship between core stability training and reductions in TMD-related pain, though improvements in functional outcomes remain inconclusive. Biomechanical links between the pelvic floor, spine, and temporomandibular joint further support the rationale for core-focused interventions. Nevertheless, few studies have isolated the effects of core strengthening on TMD symptomatology. This study seeks to determine whether the integration of core stability exercises into TMD management can reduce pain, improve function, and enhance quality of life.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 80 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.
Who Can Participate (Inclusion Criteria):
Adults between 18 and 70 years old.
Have had jaw pain or problems with the jaw joint (TMD) in the last 30 days.
Able and willing to attend at least six physical therapy sessions over three months.
Speak English or have access to a qualified interpreter.
Able to safely do physical exercises.
Who Cannot Participate (Exclusion Criteria):
Recently had surgery on the jaw, teeth, or spine (within the last 3 months).
Recently had head or neck injuries or certain neurological problems (such as dizziness, double vision, trouble swallowing, or sudden falls).
Are pregnant or become pregnant during the study.
Currently doing physical therapy for other movement problems that could affect the study.
Have had lower back or pelvic health issues in the last 3 months.
Currently receiving chemotherapy or radiation for cancer in the head, neck, pelvis, spine, or hip.
Wear dentures or cannot safely perform exercises.
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.
What they're measuring
1
TMD Pain (e.g., Visual Analog Scale/Numeric Pain Rating)
Timeframe: Baseline and post-intervention (6 PT sessions), assessed up to 6 weeks