- Title
Impact of physiotherapy on orofacial manifestations of juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
- Authors
Vassis, Stratos; Resnick, Cory M.; Nørgaard, Mette; Strawn, Kathleen M.; Grove, Helle; Noeldeke, Beatrice; Herlin, Troels; Pedersen, Thomas Klit; Stoustrup, Peter Bangsgaard
- Abstract
Background: Physiotherapy appears as a promising therapy option for patients with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) [1-2], but the effects of physiotherapy and jaw exercises on JIA-related orofacial symptoms remain unknown [3]. The aim of this proof-of-concept study was to assess the impact of orofacial physiotherapy and home-exercise programs in patients with JIA and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) involvement. Methods: Twelve patients with JIA and TMJ involvement received a treatment of physiotherapy, complemented by prescribed home exercises spanning over eight weeks. Orofacial symptoms and dysfunction were monitored pre-treatment, during treatment, after treatment, and at a three-months follow-up. Results: Orofacial pain frequency and intensity significantly decreased during the course of the treatment (p = 0.009 and p = 0.006), with further reductions observed at the three-month follow-up (p = 0.007 and p = 0.002). During treatment, the mandibular function improved significantly in terms of maximal mouth opening capacity, laterotrusion, and protrusion. Conclusions: This proof-of-concept study shows favourable effects of physiotherapy and home excercises in the management of JIA-related orofacial symptoms and dysfunctions.
- Subjects
JUVENILE idiopathic arthritis; PHYSICAL therapy; HOME rehabilitation; TEMPOROMANDIBULAR disorders; OROFACIAL pain; TEMPOROMANDIBULAR joint
- Publication
Pediatric Rheumatology, 2023, Vol 21, Issue 1, p1
- ISSN
1546-0096
- Publication type
Academic Journal
- DOI
10.1186/s12969-023-00900-0