Protocol for a Randomized Clinical Trial of Oculomotor Exercises Added to Treatment for Temporomandibular Disorders
Leticia Neves Mode
Universidade Nove de Julho, São Paulo, Brazil.
Cindy Mozer Nakamura
Universidade Nove de Julho, São Paulo, Brazil.
Taisi Antunes Da Cunha
Universidade Nove de Julho, São Paulo, Brazil.
Fernanda Cardoso Nakamoto
Universidade Nove de Julho, São Paulo, Brazil.
Margarete Nobilo Leonardis
Universidade Nove de Julho, São Paulo, Brazil.
Cid André Fidelis De Paula Gomes
Universidade Nove de Julho, São Paulo, Brazil.
Fabiano Politti
Universidade Nove de Julho, São Paulo, Brazil.
Daniela Aparecida Biasotto-Gonzalez *
Universidade Nove de Julho, São Paulo, Brazil.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the effect of adding oculomotor exercises to the treatment of Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) on pain intensity, range of mandibular movement, TMD severity, and ocular convergence insufficiency (CI), immediately, 3 months, and 6 months after treatment.
Study Design: Controlled and randomized clinical trial included blinded evaluators and participants.
Methodology: Individuals aged 18–45 years diagnosed with TMD and convergence insufficiency.
Intervention: Two groups: the experimental group (EG) and the control group (CG) groups will receive 12 treatment sessions. Main outcome measures: pain intensity, range of mandibular movement, convergence insufficiency, and severity of TMD during follow-up immediately after treatment, 3 and 6 months.
Analysis: The statistical analysis will use linear mixed models based on the intention to treat. The significance level will be set at 5%.
Results: This is a preliminary protocol; results will be available once the study is completed. It is expected relevant patient clinical improvement results.
Conclusion: It will be possible to determine the effects of adding oculomotor exercises in the treatment of TMD.
Implications for Practice: If successful, the protocol could be integrated into clinical practice as an adjunct to conventional therapy for TMD, expanding the therapeutic options available to healthcare professionals and patients.
Keywords: Temporomandibular disorder, clinical trials, physical therapy, convergence insufficiency, oculomotor therapy