Mandibular Mobilization in Individuals with Anterior Disc Displacement with Magnetic Resonance Imaging Assessment: A Study Protocol

Objective: To assess the influence of mandibular mobilization on the positioning of the articular disc using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in participants with anterior disc displacement, with and without reduction, immediately after treatement, and at 3 and 6 months post-treatment.

Study Design: Controlled, randomized clinical trial with blinded evaluators and participants.

Methodology: Individuals aged 18-45 years with an MRI-confirmed diagnosis of anterior disc displacement.

Intervention: Two groups: GA (intervention) and GB (placebo), each receiving 12 treatment sessions.

Main Outcome Measures: Disc positioning assessed by MRI before and after the final session, as well as at 3- and 6-month follow-ups.

Analysis: Statistical analysis will be conducted using linear mixed models, based on an-intention-to-treat approach. The significance level will be set at 5%.

Results: The intervention will be considered successful if there is a 30% improvement in MRI parameters between pre- and post-treatment measurements, along with clinical improvement in mandibular movement.