Perceived helpfulness of treatments for myofascial TMD as a function of comorbid widespread pain

Abstract

Objective

This study examined whether patients with myofascial temporomandibular disorder (mTMD) comorbid with fibromyalgia (FM) receive different treatments or respond differently to these treatments than mTMD-only patients.

Materials and methods

A total of 125 mTMD+ women were enrolled (26 FM+ and 98 FM−). mTMD and FM were assessed via clinical research examinations. Treatment histories and self-reported treatment-related improvement were obtained via interview.

Results

The top 3 most common treatments reported were oral appliances (59%), physical therapy (54%), and jaw exercises at home (34%). Use of alternative medicine was reported more frequently among FM+ women, but self-reported improvement did not differ by comorbid FM. Physical therapy was as likely reported by FM status but self-reported improvement scores trended higher for FM+ women.

Conclusions

Oral appliances were as likely to be reported by FM comorbid as FM− women. Oral appliances did not outperform self-management treatments on self-reported improvement of facial pain.

Clinical relevance

Results support the use of self-management as first-line treatment for mTMD and potential utility of inquiring about widespread pain for treatment planning.

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