The Relationship Between the Parameters Affecting the Functionality of the Pelvic Floor and the Temporomandibular Joint

The aim of our study is to examine the relationship between the parameters affecting the pelvic floor and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) functionality and to emphasize the necessity of investigating combined and coordinated exercise approaches in the treatment of dysfunctions that may occur in both specific regions. Our study, which is planned as an epidemiological research, will include 59 women between the ages of 20-50, who applied to the Istanbul Research and Training Hospital, Gynecology and Obstetrics Polyclinic, and volunteered to participate in the study. Assessments include pelvic floor dysfunction, pelvic floor muscle activation, sacroiliac joint mobility, pelvis position, and pain for pelvic floor functionality; temporomandibular joint dysfunction, masseter muscle activation, temporomandibular joint range of motion, position of the mandible and pain for temporomandibular joint funstionlaity; strength of the muscles located on the deep anterior line and thought to be related, flexibility, myofascial trigger points and depression level for mediating factors affecting functionality. After the data are completed, the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test will be applied to determine whether the data fit the normal distribution before starting the statistical analysis. Pearson Correlation test will be applied between dependent variables, independent variables and mediating factors in case the data show normal distribution, and Spearman Correlation test will be applied if it does not show normal distribution. Significance value will be determined as p\<0.05, correlation coefficient between variables r: 0-0.46 (weak); r: 0.5-0.74 (medium); r: will be interpreted as 0.75-1.0 (strong).