Myofacial Pain Dysfunction Syndrome: Insights and Management
Author(s): PRATIK C PARKARWAR, RAJENDRA BIRANGANE, RASHMI ROKADE, ROHAN CHAUDHARI AND KANCHAN M BIRAJDAR
Myofacial pain dysfunction syndrome (MPDS) is a form of temporomandibular disorder reflected by dull, aching, radiating pain that may become acute during the use of jaw, and mandibular dysfunction that generally involves a limited mouth opening. MPDS is a functional disease that is related to the masticatory muscles, the neural structures, and the temporomandibular joint structures. Myofacial pain is overlooked as a conjoint cause of chronic pain because of its 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 the development of spasms with loss of capacity for voluntary relaxation and exhibit an overactive stretch reflex leading to involuntary shortening of one or more muscles with an eccentric position of condyles. There are improper jaw movements and trismus, and pain due to spasms and decreased relaxation of muscles. This review article focuses on the 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.
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