The Effects of an Exercise Regimen Following TMJ Arthrocentesis

The symptomatic temporomandibular joint (TMJ), either right or left, will be anesthetized using an auriculotemporal nerve block and intracapsular anesthesia. The arthrocentesis procedure will be performed using the double-puncture technique. A 21-gauge needle will be inserted into the posterior region of the joint capsule, targeting the upper joint compartment at a point located 10 mm anterior to the tragus. A second 21-gauge needle will be introduced into the anterior region of the joint capsule, also targeting the upper compartment, at a point located 20 mm anterior to the tragus. The upper joint compartment will then be irrigated with a minimum of 200 mL of saline solution through one of the needles.

Following the arthrocentesis procedure described for the other study group, patients will undergo a standardized exercise regimen based on established literature. The regimen includes two sets of movements. The first set involves freely opening the jaw, shifting it right, left, and forward, and repeating these movements while applying finger resistance-closing the mouth against the pressure or forcing the jaw open with the fingers. Each movement will last 10 seconds and be performed 10 times daily. The second set aims to improve the mandibular condyle-articular disc relationship. Patients will open their mouth as wide as possible, advance their lower jaw fully, and close their teeth in an edge-to-edge position. These movements will be performed three times daily for 5 minutes after meals.