Feasibility of Prospective Surveillance and Early Physical Therapy for Trismus

• Background and rationale : Head and neck cancers (HNCs) originate in the nasal cavity, sinuses, lips, mouth, salivary glands, throat, and larynx. Individuals undergoing treatment for HNC often develop side effects such as oral mucositis xerostomia and experience difficulties with swallowing and speech. Along with these side effects, individuals with oral and oropharyngeal cancers can develop trismus, defined as restricted mouth opening (< 35mm).The beneficial effects of early physical therapy programs in mitigating the incidence of trismus have not yet been fully established, and there are no validated protocols or guidelines regarding exercise therapy. The findings of this study will be crucial in developing effective rehabilitation strategies for patients with HNC and also will contribute to the development of tailored exercise programs and rehabilitation protocols, enabling physical therapists specifically to deliver personalized care for individuals with HNC.
• Research question and Objectives : i. To evaluate the feasibility of a prospective surveillance approach for the early detection of trismus in patients with HNC. ii. To determine the acceptability of implementing an early physical therapy intervention which includes jaw and neck exercises, manual therapy for the jaw, and the use of a jaw device for managing trismus in individuals with HNC.
• Methodology : This feasibility two-phase study will recruit individuals with HNC, who are undergoing or have completed radiotherapy. Phase I includes two cohorts: (1) a prospective surveillance cohort of individuals undergoing radiotherapy who are at risk of developing trismus, and (2) a post-radiotherapy cohort of individuals with established trismus. In the surveillance cohort, PT will be initiated if jaw mobility declines by >5% relative to pre-treatment baseline or reaches a threshold of ≤35 mm. Participants in the post-radiotherapy cohort with established trismus (Mouth Opening (MO) ≤35 mm) will receive PT at enrolment. The intervention will include MT and therapeutic exercise. Phase II includes a qualitative assessment of the study's acceptability and delivery. The primary outcome is feasibility, including recruitment, adherence, and completion rates. Changes in MO will be explored descriptively as a secondary outcome. Participants will be identified at the HNC new patient clinic. Participants will receive early intervention including manual therapy and a device-based jaw exercise regimen if presenting with 5% or greater reduction in jaw opening compared to pre-treatment.

Phase II includes a qualitative assessment of the study's acceptability and delivery.

The primary outcome is feasibility, including recruitment, adherence, and completion rates. Changes in MO will be explored descriptively as a secondary outcome.

Inclusion criteria

• Have a diagnosis of oral, oropharyngeal, or nasopharyngeal cancer
• Be scheduled to undergo cancer treatment that includes radiation therapy
• Be able to read and understand English
• Be an Alberta resident.

Exclusion criteria

• Previous surgery for the temporomandibular joint that is not related to the HNC diagnosis.
• Local cancer recurrence or metastatic disease.
• Unable to provide informed consent.