Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy - Department of Musculoskeletal Disorders

Masticatory myofascial pain (MMP) is the primary reason for chronic orofacial pain. It origins in the masticatory muscles and the pain maybe felt in the face, jaws and can radiate to the ear, head, and neck regions. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of ischemic compression (IC) on muscles of mastication and upper trapezuis muscle myofascail trigger points (MTrPs) on MMP syndrome. Methods: Thirty two MMP patients of both sexes, with age ranged from 20 to 35 years, were randomly divided into two groups. Both groups have been evaluated for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain intensity by visual analogue scale (VAS), maximal mouth opening (MMO) by digital vernier caliper, and TMJ function by fonseca{u2019}s questionnaire. The control group (group I) received IC on masticatory muscles (masseter, lateral pterygoid) followed by an exercise program. The experimental group (group II) received the same treatment program and IC on upper trapezius muscle active MTrPs, all patients received 2 sessions per week for 2 weeks. Results: Results showed a significant improvement in all measurements in both groups. Without significant difference between both groups except for the TMJ pain intensity, in favor of the experimental group. Conclusion: Ischemic compression and exercises are effective in improving TMJ pain intensity, MMO, TMJ function significantly in patients suffering from MMP without a significant effect of adding upper trapezuis active MTrPs except for the TMJ pain intensity

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