Effect of Forward Head Correction on EMG of Masticatory Muscles in Patients With TMD

This study aims to investigate the effects of forward head correction exercises on EMG of masticatory and cervical muscles in patients with temporomandibular disorder. The study's design will be double-blinded, randomized controlled trial. Patients suffering from TMD will be included in the program. The participants will allocate to one of two groups at random: the experimental group will perform a program consisting of two strengthening exercises (deep cervical flexors and shoulder retractors) and two stretchings (cervical extensors and pectoral muscles) and the control group will receive only neck flexion exercise.. This exercise program will be repeated 4 times per week for 10 weeks, and each session lasted for 30 minutes. The muscle activity EMG of masseter, temporalis, splenius, upper trapezius, and SCM will be measured pre and post-assessment using a biopic data acquisition system.

Inclusion Criteria:Men and women/aged between 18-40/ patients suffer from TMJ disorder/ no other treatment such as medications, physical therapy, and joint injections in the past 2 weeksExclusion Criteria:Previous history of TMG subluxation or dislocation that may interfere with the opening of the mouth/ Neck pain which may affect the head and neck posture/ Head or neck trauma/.Class II or III malocclusion/ posture disorder caused by abnormal curvature of the spine; rheumatic disease; hemorrhagic disease, etc.;/ Lateral deviation of the mandible