Could a gentle zap to the neck ease your jaw pain?

NCT ID NCT06802445

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether a non-invasive device that stimulates the vagus nerve, combined with self-care exercises, can reduce jaw and neck pain in people with temporomandibular disorders (TMD). 48 adults with jaw muscle pain participated. They received either real or placebo nerve stimulation plus a home exercise program. The goal was to see if the combination improves pain, jaw movement, and muscle function.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

non-invasive vagal nerve stimulation

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a drug-free way to reduce jaw and neck pain in people with jaw joint disorders.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage study with only 48 participants. The results may not apply to everyone, and the benefit over placebo might be small.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for TEMPOROMANDIBULAR DISORDERS (TMD) are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

myofascial pain syndrome Pain temporomandibular joint disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Toros University 45 Evler Campus

    Mersin, 33140, Turkey (Türkiye)