A novel neuromotor reprogramming treatment modality for temporomandibular disorders: a pilot retrospective observational study

Abstract

Background The purpose of this investigation was to determine if neuromotor programming using the ALLYANE® process would significantly improve mouth-opening capacity in patients suffering from temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Methods A total of 21 adult patients (20 females and 1 male; mean age = 44 years) who underwent a rehabilitation session with neuromotor reprogramming were included. Maximal mouth opening (MMO) was measured before and just after neuromotor reprogramming session. Results The results showed a statistically significant (p < 0.001) mean gain of 4.95 mm (+ 13%) after neuromotor reprogramming. Furthermore, this preliminary study showed that the gain registered in patients with a lower-than-normal mouth opening and improvement of lateral movements were greater than the one obtained with the other patients. Conclusions Although these preliminary results need confirmation, the study suggests that the use of neuromotor reprogramming in patients suffering from TMD could present new possibilities for enhanced outcomes, in particular to relax the stomatognathic system with a noninvasive, reversible therapy without known side effects, providing open new perspectives in the area of joint diseases.