A mixed method study exploring patient satisfaction and feasibility of two exercise programmes in systemic sclerosis-associated microstomia.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

SSc often leads to fibrotic cutaneous involvement of the face and reduced oral aperture, with impaired food intake and oral hygiene. Oral exercises can increase oral aperture but are often hampered by low adherence rates. The aim of this mixed method study was to explore the feasibility, patient satisfaction and effectiveness of two exercise programmes in SSc-associated microstomia.

Methods

Adult patients suffering from SSc and microstomia (maximal oral aperture <40 mm) were randomized to two groups. Group A exercised with a jaw motion device (Therabite), whereas group B performed mouth-stretching exercises. Patients were expected to exercise for 10 min, three times per day for 3 months. Patients were evaluated at baseline, 3 months (period without intervention), 6

SUBMITTER: Sydow E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8117948 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature