Fatma ERDEO, Betül ERGÜN, Neslihan Atuntaş YILMAZ, Adem KÜÇÜK
Turkish Journal of Kinesiology - 2026;12(2):121-126
This study investigated the effects of a structured facial exercise program on tongue protrusion (Tprot/tongue length), mouth opening, facial stiffness, and quality of life (SF-36) in individuals with systemic sclerosis (SS), compared to a control group given only home exercises. A total of 32 individuals with SS were included in the study (EG n=16, CG n=16). The exercise group received an exercise program targeting the face/orofacial region, while the control group received a home exercise program. Assessments were performed at baseline (T) and post-treatment (PT). For post-test group comparisons, baseline values were subjected to covariate testing using ANCOVA (p<0.05). Significant differences were observed in the PT exercise group values compared to the control group (p<.05). According to ANCOVA results, when baseline values were controlled, the group effect for Tprot2 was significant (F (1,29)=83.67, p<0.001, eta p²=0.743) and the adjusted mean was 31.34+/-0.61 for EG and 23.47+/-0.61 for CG. The supervised facial/orofacial exercise program produced significant improvements in tongue protrusion (Tprot), mouth opening, and facial stiffness, leading to superior outcomes in most SF-36 quality-of-life subscales compared to home exercises. These results strongly support the incorporation of orofacial rehabilitation into clinical management of individuals with systemic sclerosis.
