Perceived helpfulness of treatments for myofascial TMD as a function of comorbid widespread pain.

objectiveThis study examined whether patients with myofascial temporomandibular disorder (mTMD) comorbid with fibromyalgia (FM) receive different treatments or respond differently to these treatments than mTMD-only patients. MATERIALS AND

methodsA total of 125 mTMD+ women were enrolled (26 FM+ and 98 FM-). mTMD and FM were assessed via clinical research examinations. Treatment histories and self-reported treatment-related improvement were obtained via interview.

resultsThe top 3 most common treatments reported were oral appliances (59%), physical therapy (54%), and jaw exercises at home (34%). Use of alternative medicine was reported more frequently among FM+ women, but self-reported improvement did not differ by comorbid FM. Physical therapy was as likely reported by FM status but self-reported improvement scores trended higher for FM+ women.

conclusionsOral appliances were as likely to be reported by FM comorbid as FM- women. Oral appliances did not outperform self-management treatments on self-reported improvement of facial pain. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Results support the use of self-management as first-line treatment for mTMD and potential utility of inquiring about widespread pain for treatment planning.