EFFECT OF USING A RELAXATION SPLINT ON REDUCING CHRONIC NECK PAIN

Abstract

Background: Approximately 80% of patients seeking dental care exhibit parafunctional manifestations of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), while approximately 70% of patients with TMJ dysfunction experience pain in the cervical spine. It is noteworthy that neck pain is a socially significant phenomenon, as this condition can lead to a substantial decline in the patient's quality of life and disability. Aim: To determine the effect of using a relaxation mouthguard in patients with TMJ dysfunction on reducing chronic neck pain. Materials and methods: The study involved 16 individuals with manifestations of TMJ dysfunction, who were divided into 2 groups. The diagnosis was based on a questionnaire following the research diagnostic criteria for TMD, VAS, and the Oswestry cervical scale. Questionnaires and other examinations were conducted on all patients four times (before treatment, on days 8, 15, and 23 after treatment). Cervical spine mobility was assessed in all patients, and mandibular axiography was performed. Patients in the experimental group, comprising 8 individuals, were fitted with individual relaxation splints and prescribed manual massage of the masticatory and cervical muscles. Patients in the control group, also consisting of 8 patients, were instructed to perform manual massage of the masticatory and cervical muscles. Results: Patients in both study groups demonstrated a reduction in clinical symptoms. According to the study data, the reduction of pain in the experimental group from the beginning to the end of treatment was 62.86% (p < 0.001) of the initial value, whereas in the control group, it was 13.75% (p < 0.001). There was an increase in mobility of the cervical spine in both study groups (p < 0.001). The index of cervical spine disability in the experimental group improved by 225% compared to the control group. Conclusions: The use of a relaxation mouthguard in patients with TMJ dysfunction and existing neck pain symptoms can alleviate chronic pain manifestations in the cervical spine.