NCT07151469

Kaltenborn Versus Active Release on Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction

Kaltenborn Mobilization Versus Active Release Technique on Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction for Radiation - Induced Trismus in Patients With Head and Neck Cancer

• Status: Completed
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 115 (actual)
• Sponsor: MTI University · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 20 Years – 60 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a term describing musculoskeletal conditions of the face, jaw and temporal regions. TMD is frequently associated with pain and/or dysfunction such as impaired jaw function, pain in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), muscles and/or related structures, and associated headaches. The etiology of TMD is multifactorial and complex. It is known that one cause of TMD symptom development is treatment for head and neck cancer (HNC). The main treatment modalities for HNC include radiotherapy (RT) with or without chemotherapy and surgical intervention, as either a single therapy or a combination therapy. In the head and neck region, the anatomical structures are necessary for essential functions such as speech, swallowing, breathing, smell, and taste. The treatment of head and neck tumors may frequently impair some of these functions, which may result in pain, oral dysfunction, and impaired health-related quality of life.

Detailed description

KMT evaluates the motions on the articular surfaces and applies them to treatment according to MacConaill's classification of synovial joints to restore the reduced accessory glides and achieve painless physiological movements. KMT involves the application of a passive sustained joint play that can be graded from I to III based on the type and amount of force applied. Grade-I, "loosening" refers to small-amplitude joint distraction that produces an appreciable increase in joint separation without any stress on the capsule that equalizes the cohesive forces, muscle tension and atmospheric pressure acting on the joint. Grade-II, "tightening" refers to the distraction or glide movements applied to tighten the tissues around the joint, also known as "taking up the slack". Grade-III, "stretching" refers to the distraction or glide movement applied to stretch the joint capsule and surrounding per articular structures, thus, increasing joint ROM. Another option to consider is offered here at Pain and Performance Solutions. We have seen great results from treating TMJ disorders using Active Release Technique®. This deep tissue therapy technique is primarily used to break up adhesions and scar tissue on the surrounding muscle and ligaments. However, this technique has been proven a very effective method for treating TMD.

Conditions

• Head and Neck Cancer

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
OTHER	Kaltenborn mobilization	The therapist applies gentle traction to the mandible, maintained for approximately 20 to 30 seconds, to create space in the joint. This is done by pulling the jaw downward and slightly forward, which can help alleviate pressure and pain. This hand placement allowed the therapist to apply transverse force across the mandible as necessary, while at the same time allowing an anterior-inferior gliding force to the mandible on the side of restriction, while also controlling the unrestricted side inhibiting any excessive mandibular forward gliding with the other hand. The mobilization is then initiated with Grade I, which involves small-amplitude movements performed at the beginning of the range of joint play to reduce pain and muscle guarding. This is followed by Grade II mobilization, which consists of larger amplitude movements within the mid-range of joint play to enhance joint mobility and decrease pain without reaching the joint's full resistance barrier
OTHER	active release technique	This deep tissue therapy technique is primarily used to break up adhesions and scar tissue on the surrounding muscle and ligaments. However, this technique has been proven to be a very effective method for treating TMD.While there are several muscles connected with the movement of the TMJ, it is thought that the major players are the digastricus, masseter, and lateral pterygoid muscles

Timeline

• Start date: 2025-10-01
• Primary completion: 2026-02-01
• Completion: 2026-02-10
• First posted: 2025-09-03
• Last updated: 2026-02-12

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Egypt