TEMPOROMANDIBULAR DISORDERS AND PRINCIPLES OF REHABILITATION

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PHYSICAL THERAPY IN TEMPOROMANDIBULAR DISORDERS

Demet Ferahman

Başakşehir Çam and Sakura City Hospital, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, İstanbul, Türkiye

Ferahman D. Physical Therapy in Temporomandibular Disorders. In: Coşar SN, Afşar Sİ editors. Temporomandibular Disorders and Principles of Rehabilitation. 1st ed. Ankara: Türkiye Klinikleri; 2025. p.79-87.

ABSTRACT

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) affect the temporomandibular joint, masticatory muscles, and associated structures, causing pain, joint dysfunction, and a significant reduction in quality of life. This chapter provides a comprehensive review of evidence-based conservative management approaches for TMD. Physical therapy modalities, including transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), therapeutic ultrasound, phonophoresis, iontophoresis, extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), low-level laser therapy (LLLT), biofeedback, and thermal therapies, are thoroughly discussed, focusing on their mechanisms, clinical applications, and efficacy. These treatments aim to reduce pain, improve joint function, and promote tissue healing. This chapter also highlights the advantages, limitations, and integration of these methods into multidisciplinary care. It aims to achieve patient-centered and optimized treatment results by combining theoretical knowledge with clinical experience.

Keywords: Temporomandibular disorders; Physical therapy; Electric stimulation therapy; Ultrasonic therapy; Conservative treatment

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