Manual Therapy on Oral Opening, Swallow Function and Upper Quarter Mobility on Head and Neck Cancer Survivors

Trismus has been reported as the second most common comorbidity in survivors of head and neck cancer (HNC). It is mainly associated with post-radiotherapy subcutaneous fibrosis, muscular atrophy, damage to neurological structures in the neck, or a combination of all, affecting masticatory musculature. In addition to this, the loss of flexibility and strength in the shoulder has also been shown to be related to deficits in the function and quality of life of these patients.

The goal of this clinical trial is to determinate the effectiveness and safety of Manual Therapy (MT) on Oral Opening, Swallow Function, as well as the mobility of the upper quarter, the strength of cervical musculature, pain, functionality, and the perception of quality of life in head and neck cancer survivors.

Participants will be assigned randomly to the study groups: a) manual therapy program and control motor exercises and b) motor control exercises (usual care).

The assessment refers to a baseline form (at the beginning of the study), at 6 weeks and at 6 weeks of patient follow-up.