Myogenous temporomandibular disorders: diagnostic and management considerations

Dent Clin North Am. 2007 Jan;51(1):61-83, vi. doi: 10.1016/j.cden.2006.10.002.

Abstract

Myogenous temporomandibular disorders (or masticatory myalgia) are characterized by pain and dysfunction that arise from pathologic and functional processes in the masticatory muscles. There are several distinct muscle disorder subtypes in the masticatory system, including myofascial pain, myositis, muscle spasm, and muscle contracture. The major characteristics of masticatory myalgia include pain, muscle tenderness, limited range of motion, and other symptoms (eg, fatigability, stiffness, subjective weakness). Comorbid conditions and complicating factors also are common and are discussed. Management follows with stretching, posture, and relaxation exercises, physical therapy, reduction of contributing factors, and as necessary, muscle injections.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Analgesics / therapeutic use
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
  • Exercise Therapy
  • Facial Pain / complications
  • Facial Pain / physiopathology*
  • Facial Pain / therapy
  • Humans
  • Masticatory Muscles / physiopathology*
  • Muscular Diseases / complications
  • Muscular Diseases / physiopathology*
  • Muscular Diseases / therapy
  • Occlusal Splints
  • Temporomandibular Joint Disorders / complications
  • Temporomandibular Joint Disorders / physiopathology*
  • Temporomandibular Joint Disorders / therapy

Substances

  • Analgesics