Introduction: Temporomandibular disorders are a subgroup of orofacial pain affecting muscles of mastication, temporomandibular joint and associated structures like head and neck. They affect from 5 to 12 % of population. In addition to different physiotherapeutic treatments the conservative treatment includes manual therapy techniques on the temporomandibular joint and associated structures. Purpose: To review relevant literature and present the effectiveness of manual therapy on the cervical spine in people with temporomandibular disorders. Methods: Database search included PEDro, PubMed, CINAHL and Springer Link databases with the following key words and their combinations: (temporomandibular disorder [Title/Abstract]) OR (temporomandibular joint [Title/Abstract]) AND (cervical spine manipulation [Title/Abstract]) OR (manual therapy [Title/Abstract]). Results: Six randomized controlled trials were included in the review based on the set criteria. We also included two randomized controlled trials with the intervention directed to the thoracic spine. In six trials they evaluated the effects on the range of motion of mouth opening, in three trials the effect on pain and in five trials the effects on pressure pain threshold regarding temporomandibular joint. In addition, an evaluation of EMG activity of the masticatory muscles was conducted in two trials, the effects on sympathetic nervous system in one trial and the quality of life in one trial. The results show mobilization and manipulation techniques cause statistically significant (p = < 0,05) improvement in range of motion of mouth opening, in pain and pressure pain threshold. They also positively affect EMG activity of masticatory muscles, sympathetic nervous system causing higher skin conductance, higher heart rate and breathing frequency and improve quality of life. Discussion and conclusion: The use of manual techniques on the upper cervical spine or for the segmental dysfunction of the upper cervical spine showed an improvement of symptoms whereas, manual techniques applied to the thoracic spine resulted in no changes. Further research should determine the most suitable procedure and explore the long-term effectiveness of manual techniques on the cervical spine in people with temporomandibular disorders.
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