Immediate effects of microsystem acupuncture in patients with oromyofacial pain and craniomandibular disorders (CMD): a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Simma, I.

Gleditsch, J. M.

Simma, L.

Piehslinger, E.

British dental journal

2009

207(12)

-

RCT

Craniomandibular Disorders

Stomatognathic Diseases

Acu Versus Sham

TMD

Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome

Restricted Modalities, Acupuncture Only

Sham Control

Non Penetrating Sham, Electrical

Verum Acupoint Control

RCT

TMJ

TCM Acupuncture Style

Individualized Acupuncture Protocol

Symptom Based Point Selection

Other Acupuncture Style

Background: Patients presenting with oromyofacial disorders and pain in the head and neck area are often resistant to conventional therapy. Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in pain reduction. Methods: Twenty-three patients with craniomandibular disorders, headache and, in particular, local pain in the orofacial, cervical and temporomandibular joint areas were randomised into acupuncture or placebo laser therapy groups. Pain was assessed by a visual analogue scale (VAS) and by palpation of 14 muscles and groups of muscles immediately before and after treatment, the assessor being blinded to the patients' allocation. Applicable acupuncture points were searched and pricked using the 'very-point' technique. Findings: Pain reduction measured by VAS was significantly more pronounced after acupuncture than after placebo treatment (p = 0.031). Sum of pain scores across 14 muscles was considerably more reduced after acupuncture as compared to sham laser treatment. Interpretation: Acupuncture may bring about immediate pain relief in patients with oromyofacial disorders, increasing the chance to initiate other therapeutic measures.

Stomatognathic Diseases

23

1 Day