Retrieved from Vol. 1, No. 1, 2025
Pages 29 -39
Received 04.08.2025
Revised 01.11.2025
Accepted 12.12.2025
Retrieved from Vol. 1, No. 1, 2025
Pages 29 -39
Abstract
The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of osteopathic treatment for temporomandibular joint dysfunction using clinical indicators, magnetic resonance imaging data and immunohistochemical analysis. The study included 60 patients suffering from pain syndrome, limited mandibular mobility, joint clicking and impaired occlusal relationships. Treatment was carried out at the Dental-Osh dental clinic and involved the application of osteopathic techniques, including craniosacral, myofascial, structural and visceral methods, aimed at restoring biomechanics and normalising muscle tone. Treatment effectiveness was assessed using magnetic resonance imaging and the Temporomandibular Joint Symptom Intensity Scale (TMJ SIS), which reflected pain intensity and the range of mandibular movements. The results demonstrated pronounced morphological changes, including restoration of the physiological position of the articular disc, normalisation of the joint space and reduction of inflammation in soft tissues. A significant decrease in pain intensity and improvement in mandibular mobility were also observed. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed a statistically significant reduction in the expression of pro-inflammatory markers: tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) by 41.6%, vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) by 27.9%, and matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13) by 35.8%. At the same time, increased expression of cartilage regeneration factors was noted: collagen type II alpha 1 chain (COL2A1) by 43.9% and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) by 40%, which confirmed successful structural and functional restoration of temporomandibular joint tissues. The analysis demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in the restoration of mandibular movement amplitude, which was also confirmed by MRI findings. Reduction in pain severity and recovery of joint functional status were recorded both by clinical scales and immunohistochemical data, indicating a positive effect of osteopathic intervention. The results of the study could be used to implement osteopathic methods in the comprehensive treatment of temporomandibular joint dysfunction in interdisciplinary dental practice, ensuring more effective functional recovery and pain reduction in patients
Keywords:
craniosacral therapy, myofascial techniques, structural techniques, visceral techniques, cartilage tissue regeneration