Comparing the Effectiveness of Online vs. One-on-one vs. Group Physiotherapy for Treating Myogenic Temporomandibular Disorders: A Randomized Controlled Trial

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating whether online or group physiotherapy is as effective as individual physiotherapy for treating myogenic temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), which cause orofacial pain. The study addresses the challenge that few dentists and physiotherapists specialize in this area, leading to long wait times for treatment. The aim is to ensure patients receive safe and effective care, especially given the abundance of unverified information available online. Participants are randomly assigned to one of three groups: online physiotherapy, group physiotherapy, or individual physiotherapy. The online group receives a detailed exercise video available for four weeks. The group physiotherapy group attends a 30-minute face-to-face session with up to five people, learning exercises before practicing at home for four weeks. The individual physiotherapy group has a one-on-one 30-minute session to learn exercises, followed by four weeks of home practice. During the study, pain levels will be measured using a Visual Analogue Scale before and one month after physiotherapy. Additional assessments include RDC/TMD results after one month. Participants will be monitored throughout the treatment period, which lasts four weeks. The study aims to provide evidence on the best physiotherapy approach for TMDs, helping to improve access and treatment quality for patients.

Comparing the Effectiveness of Online vs. Face-to-face Physiotherapy for Treating Temporomandibular Disorders