Temporomandibular Intra-Articular Steroid Injection: Its Impact on Relieving Otalgia

Abstract

Background: Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is one of the most common non otological causes of otalgia. Treatment options vary from noninvasive options, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) and physiotherapy to more invasive options of treatment such as intra-joint injections with corticosteroids and surgery. The aim of this study is to highlight the impact of the intra-articular steroid injection in TMJ on the otalgia not only the pain over the joint region. Methods: This study is a case series study that has been conducted on 12 patients (10 females and 2 males) aging from 23 to 47 years old with complaint of pain at area of temporomandibular joint and temple with prominent otalgia. Each patient has been asked to put a grade for otalgia from 0 to 2 before and after injection (0: no pain - 1: mild pain - 2: sever pain). Results: Ten cases showed complete relief of otalgia either after one or two injections. Two cases showed persistent otalgia after 3 attempts of injection. Conclusion: Temporomandibular intra articular steroid injection is a minor procedure that could be carried out safely at outpatient clinics and an effective option for relieving otalgia secondary to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).