THERAPEUTIC EXERCISE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF ANTERIOR DISC DISPLACEMENT OF THE TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT

Evaluation of the use of exercise in the management of anterior disc displacement of the temporomandibular joint is currently lacking. A review of the literature was undertaken which showed that although therapeutic exercise may be of value for outcome measures such as pain, functional impairment and joint sounds, there is insufficient evidence to establish its efficacy in the management of anterior disc displacement. Furthermore, the methods of exercise treatment provision and the types of exercise which are most beneficial to this group of patients need to be established. Further studies including large, well-designed, randomised, controlled trials are needed to determine the clinical utility of this management approach in anterior disc displacement of the temporomandibular joint.