Ultrasonographic Study on How Occlusal Splint Therapy Affects Head and Neck Muscles in Women with Bruxism and Myofascial Pain

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the effects of occlusal splint therapy on head and neck muscles in patients with myofascial pain and bruxism related to temporomandibular disorders TMD. The study focuses on patients who have previously visited a specialized clinic for TMD complaints and have been diagnosed with masticatory muscle disorders using clinical and radiographic evaluations, along with ultrasonographic imaging. The purpose is to evaluate changes in muscle thickness, elasticity, symptoms, and pain after treatment. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. The first group consists of patients undergoing routine occlusal splint therapy for 12 weeks, while the second group serves as a control and does not receive treatment during the study period. Both groups will have ultrasonographic imaging performed at the start and end of the 12-week period. The treatment group will follow their usual clinical care, and the control group will maintain their place in the treatment queue without intervention. During the study, participants will complete the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders TMD-DC form at baseline and after 12 weeks to assess symptom and pain changes. Ultrasonographic imaging will measure the thickness and elasticity of several head and neck muscles at both time points. The researchers will compare imaging and questionnaire results within and between groups to evaluate the impact of occlusal splint therapy on muscle morphology and function over the study period.

Effect of Occlusal Splint on Head and Neck Muscles in Patients With Bruxism and Myofascial Pain