Telerehabilitation Dual-Task Training in Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction

Effect of Telerehabilitation-Based Dual-Task Training on Clinical Outcomes in Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction

This randomized controlled trial will be conducted among 18-25-year-old participants who present with temporomandibular joint dysfunction symptoms, including pain, limited range of motion, and joint crepitation. Participants will be randomly allocated into control and intervention groups using block randomization. The control group will receive a standard physiotherapy program, while the intervention group will additionally perform telerehabilitation-based dual-task exercises. The intervention will last for six weeks, with progressive increases in exercise and cognitive task difficulty. Outcomes will be assessed at baseline and at the end of the 6th week. Primary and secondary outcome measures include pain intensity (Visual Analog Scale), jaw functional limitation (Jaw Functional Limitation Scale-20), oral habits, static balance (Tetrax system), and dynamic balance (Timed Up and Go Test). Within-group and between-group comparisons will be performed. The sample size was calculated using power analysis, resulting in 30 participants in total (15 per group), accounting for potential dropouts.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of temporomandibular joint dysfunction according to the
• Temporomandibular Disorders Research Diagnostic Criteria and Diagnostic
• Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders
• No neurological, orthopedic, or systemic condition that may affect balance
• Ability to comply with a telerehabilitation program
• Willingness to provide written informed consent
• No prior physiotherapy treatment for temporomandibular joint dysfunction

Exclusion Criteria:

• Inability to participate in regular exercise or telerehabilitation programs
• Presence of severe systemic diseases (cardiac, rheumatologic, neurological) or other severe chronic conditions
• Presence of psychiatric disorders or cognitive impairment
• Use of medications that may affect balance (such as sedatives)
• History of jaw or dental surgery within the last 6 months
• Receipt of physiotherapy, splint therapy, or similar treatment for temporomandibular joint dysfunction within the last 3-6 months