An In-vivo Study to Evaluate the Onset of Relief from Ibuprofen, Placebo and Occlusal Splint in Patients with Acute Myalgia in Muscles Related to Temporomandibular Joint: A Comparative Pilot Study

Abstract

<strong>Purpose:</strong> The treatment priority in management of Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) pain is directed towards the causative factor along with symptomatic treatment. In this process many times psychological aspect is overlooked. Hence with this pilot study, importance of psychological aspect of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) is emphasised. <strong>Methods and Material:</strong> 15 patients suffering from pain in TMD region who qualify under myalgia pain in DC/TMD Axis I category were selected. Patients were divided into 3 groups; Ibuprofen, placebo and occlusal splint with 5 patients in each group. Pain assessment was done at the first visit, 7th day visit and 14th day visit using a VAS scale. <strong>Statistical Analysis Used:</strong> Friedman Test was applied to determine overall relief from pain in the three groups. Wilcoxon sign rank test evaluated pain relief between each time interval. Kruskal Wallis Test compared different groups for relief from pain at each time interval. <strong>Key Finding:</strong> Wilcoxon sign rank test showed a significant pain relief in all three groups from I day to I follow up day and I day to II follow up day. However Pain relief from I follow up to II follow up day was significant only in placebo group. <strong>Conclusions:</strong> Management of TMD myalgia requires a comprehensive understanding of physical and psychological aspect. This will aid us in formulating a treatment plan comprising pharmacotherapy, placebo or physical therapy or combination of any of these.