Impact of physiotherapy on orofacial manifestations of juvenile idiopathic arthritis

• Main Authors: Stratos Vassis (Author), Cory M. Resnick (Author), Mette Nørgaard (Author), Kathleen M. Strawn (Author), Helle Grove (Author), Beatrice Noeldeke (Author), Troels Herlin (Author), Thomas Klit Pedersen (Author), Peter Bangsgaard Stoustrup (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: BMC, 2023-10-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.
• Notes: 10.1186/s12969-023-00900-0; 1546-0096
• Keywords: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis; Physiotherapy; Home exercises; Orofacial symptoms, TMJ arthritis; Pediatrics; RJ1-570; Diseases of the musculoskeletal system; RC925-935
• Source: Pediatric Rheumatology Online Journal, Vol 21, Iss 1, Pp 1-9 (2023)

Abstract Background Physiotherapy appears as a promising therapy option for patients with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) [1, 2], but the effects of physiotherapy and jaw exercises on JIA-related orofacial symptoms remain unknown [3]. The aim of this proof-of-concept study was to assess the impact of orofacial physiotherapy and home-exercise programs in patients with JIA and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) involvement. Methods Twelve patients with JIA and TMJ involvement received a treatment of physiotherapy, complemented by prescribed home exercises spanning over eight weeks. Orofacial symptoms and dysfunction were monitored pre-treatment, during treatment, after treatment, and at a three-months follow-up. Results Orofacial pain frequency and intensity significantly decreased during the course of the treatment (p = 0.009 and p = 0.006), with further reductions observed at the three-month follow-up (p = 0.007 and p = 0.002). During treatment, the mandibular function improved significantly in terms of maximal mouth opening capacity, laterotrusion, and protrusion. Conclusions This proof-of-concept study shows favourable effects of physiotherapy and home excercises in the management of JIA-related orofacial symptoms and dysfunctions.