Evaluating the Reproducibility of Exercise Protocols in Temporomandibular Disorders Research: A Scoping Review.

BACKGROUND

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a common source of nondental orofacial pain. Exercise therapy is a recommended conservative treatment, yet inconsistent reporting of protocols limits reproducibility and clinical application.

OBJECTIVES

The primary objective of this scoping review was to determine the reporting of exercise therapy interventions in randomised controlled trials for TMD using the Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) checklist.

METHODS

This scoping review assessed the completeness of exercise intervention reporting in randomised controlled trials (RCTs) for TMD using the TIDieR checklist. A comprehensive search across five databases and grey literature identified eligible RCTs. Data were extracted and analyzed using descriptive statistics and a Mann-Whitney U test.

RESULTS

Seventy-five RCTs published between 1993 and 2024 were included. The mean TIDieR score was 7.98/12, with only 6.7% of studies reporting all checklist items. Frequently reported elements included intervention name, rationale and procedures. Tailoring, modifications, fidelity and adherence were underreported. No significant improvement in reporting quality was observed post-TIDieR publication.

CONCLUSIONS

Reporting gaps persist in TMD exercise research, limiting reproducibility and clinical translation. Greater adherence to standardised reporting tools like TIDieR is needed to enhance transparency and evidence-based practice.