Abstract
Objective: Evaluate, through a systematic literature review, the efficacy of manual therapy (MT) in the release of masticatory muscles in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD) compared to other forms of treatment. Methods: Electronic databases as SCOPUS, PUBMED and Web of Science were used to search for randomized controlled clinical trials. The selected trials were classified according to the Jadad scale. Results: The combined use of MT with education and self-care may be safer than performing as an isolated technique when considering a period longer than 1 year due to the maintenance of the effect. Conclusions: The included studies concluded that MT alone has significant effects on pain reduction at different follow-up periods. However, due to the diversity in number of sessions, duration of sessions and follow-up times, it becomes necessary to use standardized protocols.
Highlights
According to the health sciences definitions, temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) is a variety of conditions that affect the anatomy and functional characteristics of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) (Gil-Martínez, 2018)
The main observed signs and symptoms reported by patients with the dysfunction are: pain in the TMJ region and under palpation of the masticatory muscles, joint noises, mandibular deviations, limitation of mouth opening, muscle fatigue and tiredness, headache and dental wear (Paulino et al, 2018)
In view of the above, the objective of the present study was to review the literature on the efficacy of myofascial release and the massage of the masticatory muscles in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD), as this therapy technique has not yet been fully elucidated as to its indication on the improvement of TMD signs and symptoms
Summary
According to the health sciences definitions, temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) is a variety of conditions that affect the anatomy and functional characteristics of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) (Gil-Martínez, 2018). The initial management of patients with temporomandibular dysfunction occurs through conservative interventions (Michelotti, et al, 2005; Maluf, 2008) without an established standard conduct. Among these therapies, the most common are education and self-care, home exercises, occlusal plates, pharmacotherapy and physiotherapy. In view of the above, the objective of the present study was to review the literature on the efficacy of myofascial release and the massage of the masticatory muscles in patients with TMD, as this therapy technique has not yet been fully elucidated as to its indication on the improvement of TMD signs and symptoms
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