The Effect of Cervical Stabilization Exercises in Temporomandibular Joint

Cervical range of motion exercises with craniocervical flexion, unilateral, bilateral and reciprocal shoulder flexion and abduction exercises, cervical isometric exercises with an exercise ball, unilateral, bilateral and reciprocal shoulder abduction when the exercise ball is between the wall and the head, and flexion exercises, exercise band and shoulder joint range of motion exercises with the exercise ball between the wall and the head were given to the study group. In the 3rd week, exercises were started with an exercise ball and elastic bands. All exercises were applied 3 times a day for 10 repetitions for 6 weeks.

The exercise program included mouth opening and closing against resistance, right-left lateral flexion movements, active mouth opening and closing, bilateral lateral flexion, protrusion, and retrusion. Stretching required the patient to perform the restricted movement, pushing their jaw toward the restricted direction with their hand, holding for 10 seconds, relaxing, and repeating. It also included self-massage in the form of stroking. All exercises were performed three times a day for 6 weeks, with 10 repetitions.