Electromyographic Investigation of the Instant Effect of Rocabado Exercise Approaches on Masseter Muscle Activity

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or jaw joint is a bilateral hinge joint formed by the fusion of the temporal bone and mandible, which provides complex movements necessary for basic functions such as eating, swallowing, speaking and yawning. This joint, which can perform rotation and translation movements, functions with the coordinated work of the masticatory muscles (masseter, temporalis, pterygoideus medialis and lateralis, digastricus). The masseter muscle in particular plays an important role in closing the jaw and generating chewing force.

Rocabado exercises are a special exercise program that requires the active participation of the patient to restore the normal movement of the TMJ, reduce pain, maintain body balance and correct postural disorders. This program includes six different exercises: tongue relaxation position, shoulder retraction, head position stabilization, chin tuck, TMJ rotation control and rhythmic stabilization technique.

There are a limited number of studies on the effectiveness of Rocabado exercises in the literature and there is no study specifically examining the effects of these exercises on the masseter muscle. Therefore, this study will investigate the effects of Rocabado exercises on masseter muscle activity in sedentary individuals. The findings may provide a new perspective in the physiotherapy processes of individuals with masseter muscle problems and may contribute to the selection of appropriate exercises to increase the activation of this muscle by determining which Rocabado exercise activates the masseter muscle more.