Low-Level Laser Therapy with Pharmacotherapy in the Management of Myofascial Pain Dysfunction Syndrome with or without Other Temporomandibular Disorders.

Background and aim: Myofascial pain dysfunction syndrome (MPDS) is one of the most important facial muscle disorders comprising signs and symptoms including pain during function, tenderness in the muscles of mastication and restricted jaw movement. The purpose of this study was to assess and compare the effectiveness of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and combination therapy of LLLT and pharmacotherapy in the treatment of myofascial pain with or without other TMD (temporomandibular disorders).

Materials and methods: Forty patients with MPDS were randomly divided into two groups. Group 1 received LLLT (BiolaseTM; GA-Al-As; 940 nm) in 12 sessions. Group 2 received a combination of LLLT with the drug Aceclofenac 200 mg till the end of the 12th session. Following each session and after two months, the pain intensity, maximum mouth opening, clicking sound and jaw deviation were evaluated in both groups. Data were collected and analysed using the independent t test, Mann-Whitney U test and Friedman test (a = 0.05).

Results: Both group 1 and group 2 showed a significant reduction in pain and a significant increase in mouth opening, which was faster in group 2 compared to group 1.

Conclusion: Both LLLT and a combination of LLLT and drug therapy are effective in the management of myofascial pain. LLLT + pharmacotherapy combination is more efficient at improving pain and mouth opening.