Thesis (Ph.D.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy - Department of Basic Science

Background: Temporomandibular joint dysfunctions (TMJDs) are considered the most common chronic orofacial pain condition characterized by pain in the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) area, masticatory muscles and associated musculoskeletal structures with the affection of mouth opening. Conventional therapy and low-level laser therapy (LLLT) are safe and non-invasive modalities that each therapist focuses on to relieve pain, increase function and quality of life. Purpose: it was to investigate the effect of LLLT on pain level, limitations of daily functions and quality of life in patients with bilateral (TMJD). Methods: 90 patients (68 females and 22 males) with bilateral TMJD divided in to two different studies, study I:60 patients (44 females and 16 males) with myofascial pain syndrome of TMJ and study II: 30 patients (24 females and 6 males) with osteoarthritis TMJ each was divided randomly into study and control groups. Study group in both studies received conventional therapy consisting of active and stretching exercises for mandibular muscles with ultrasound and LLLT application on TMJ area. While control group received conventional therapy, only in both studies treatment duration for both study was 6 weeks, 3 sessions per week. Pressure pain threshold was evaluated using hand held pressure algometer and pain-related limitations in daily functions, quality of life were evaluated by the limitations in daily functions-temporomandibular disorders questionnaire (LDF-TMDQ) and (WHOQOL-Brief) at baseline and after 6 weeks of the treatment

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