Efeito da terapia manual no tratamento de disfunções temporomandibulares

Abstract

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are described as a group of diseases that affect the mastication muscles, the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the surrounding structures. The prevalence of TMD in adults is high, with approximately 33% of this population exhibiting at least one symptom. Physical therapy constitutes a treatment options and manual therapy (MT) is one of the most widely used therapeutic resources in this approach. Although widely used in the clinical setting, the potential of MT in the treatment of TMD needs to be better documented. The objective of the present systematic review was to gather and to assess the methodological quality of scientific evidence that evaluated the effects of MT in reducing pain and increasing the range of motion (ROM) of the TMJ in adults with TMD. In order to identify the studies, two independent researchers conducted systematic searches in the following electronic databases: MEDLINE, BIREME, COCHRANE, PEDro and SCIELO. The methodological quality of the studies was evaluated using PEDro Scale (Physiotherapy Evidence Database). From a total of 42 articles identified, five met the criteria and were included in the review. Three studies revealed that the benefits of MT in reducing pain and increasing the ROM of the TMJ in adults were superior compared to those of other interventions, such as educational programs. Other two evidences showed that MT was effective in the treatment of TMD although its effects were similar to those of other interventions. In conclusion, MT should be considered for treating adults with TMD as evidence shows the potential of this resource in reducing pain and increasing mobility of the TMJ.