Abstract

MYOFASCIAL PAIN DYSFUNCTION SYNDROME: INSIGHTS AND MANAGEMENT

*Dr. Ranjeet Bharat Gandhi, Dr. Jahid Firoz Afzal Inamdar, Dr. Rashmi Yajurvedi Kale, Dr. Rupali V. Mhaske and Dr. Venkatesh Kawaldar

Abstract

Myofascial pain dysfunction syndrome (MPDS) is a form of temporomandibular disorders reflected by dull, aching, radiating pain that may become acute during use of the jaw, and mandibular dysfunction that generally involves a limited mouth opening. MPDS is a functional disease which is related to the masticatory muscles, the neural structures and the temporomandibular joint structures. Myofascial pain is overlooked as a conjoint cause of chronic pain because of frequent association with joint dysfunction and supplementary pain disorders. Noxious stimulation such as mechanical, emotional, infectious, metabolic, nutritional, or a mixture of these may lead to development of spasm with loss of capacity for voluntary relaxation and exhibit an overactive stretch reflex leading to invloluntary shortening of one or more muscles with eccentric position of condyles. There is improper jaw movements and trismus, and pain due to spasm and decreased relaxation of muscles. This review article focuses on pathophysiology and management of MPDS. Since the etiology of MPDS is multifactorial, the treatment of MPDS should be geared towards complete management rather than symptomatic cure.

Keywords: Myofascial pain dysfunction syndrome, temporomandibular disorders, masticatory muscle problems, trismus, aetiology.