Effect of muscle energy technique on trismus and quality of life in head and neck cancer survivors: a randomized controlled trial

Head and neck cancer is one of the most common cancers globally and in India, with treatments like surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy often leading to long-term functional complications.

MET is a manual therapy method used to treat shortened or weak muscles, restricted joints, and lymphatic issues by using controlled muscle contractions to mobilize tissues and joints.

It functions as both a treatment and diagnostic technique for motion restrictions, though current literature calls for evidence-based validation and refinement of its concepts.

MET, particularly hold–relax  techniques, can improve the functional mobility of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and increase mouth opening, but research on its effectiveness for TMJ dysfunction is limited.

After Modified Radical Neck Dissection (MRND), patients often experience pain, tightness, and reduced shoulder and neck mobility, emphasizing the need for structured rehabilitation to improve function and quality of life.

While MET has been studied for neck and shoulder dysfunctions, there is minimal research on its role in TMJ and intraoral dysfunctions among head and neck cancer survivors highlighting the need for this study.