Effect of stomatognathic alignment exercise on temporomandibular joint dysfunction associated with ankylosing spondylitis: A pilot study

Abstract

Objective: This study was carried out to investigate the effect of stomatognathic alignment exercise (SAE) program on pain, mouth opening range, and perceived level of functional impairments from temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD) associated with ankylosing, spondylitis (AS). Methods: A sample of 10 patients with TMD associated with AS was recruited in this study. A 60-minute SAE program focusing on postural alignment and mobility of the temporomandibular joint, head, neck, and trunk was provided 3 times per week for 4 weeks. Outcome measurements included pain, maximum range of active mouth opening (MRAMO), radiographic test for anterior translation distance (ATD) of a mandibular condyle, and the mandibular function impairment questionnaire (MFIQ) at pre-treatment, post-treatment, and 6-week follow-up after successful completion of treatment. Results: Statistically significant improvement was observed in pain. MRAMO, ATD, and MFIQ after the intervention (p < 0.05). The observed improvements in pain and MFIQ were well maintained throghout the follow-up period, whereas the improvement in ATD on the affected side was significantly decreased (p < 0.05). in ATD on the affected side was significantly decreased (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The SAE program seems to be beneficial for the management of pain, range of motion, and mandibular function in AS patients with TMD.