MEHMET SAİT TANGÜNER, FADİME DOYMAZ
The Journal of European Internal Medicine Professionals - 2025;3(1):13-19
Background: This study aimed to determine the effects of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) mobilization on saliva control, swallowing function, and quality of life in cerebral palsy (CP) patients with temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD). Methods: A total of 20 patients who met the inclusion criteria and were between the ages of 1 and 18 years were included. They were then randomly divided into two groups. In the study group (n=10) patients were treated with TMJ mobilization in addition to control group treatments In the control group (n=10), patients were treated with physiotherapy, and a home program including passive joint movements was provided. The treatments were continued 2 sessions/ week and 6 weeks. Patients were evaluated using the Pediatric Functional Independence Measurement (WeeFIM), the Drooling Frequency and Severity Scale (DFSS), and the Assessment of Swallowing Ability and Function (SAFE). Results: The difference between the SAFE scale scores before and after treatment was statistically significant (p<0,05). There were negative correlations between WeeFIM, and DFSS scores; a positive correlation between drool frequency and severity scores; a negative correlation between drool severity and mandible lateral deviation values; and a negative correlation between drool frequency and mandible protrusion values. Conclusion: As a result, it was found that temporomandibular mobilization in patients with cerebral palsy with TMD has a positive effect on saliva and swallowing functions and quality of life.
