Role of myofascial release technique on mobility and function in temporomandibular joint disorder patients with neck pain

Context: Temporomandibular disorders are musculoskeletal condition presenting with pain and dysfunction in masticatory muscles, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and related structure. Aim: To determine the role of myofascial release technique on mobility and function in TMJ Disorder patients with neck pain. Settings and Design: Experimental study design conducted in Dr. D.Y. Patil College of Physiotherapy, Pimpri, Pune. Subjects and Methods: Overall 30 subjects who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were randomly divided into two groups. Experimental group (Group A) was given nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID's) and myofascial release to Upper trapezius, Sternocleidomastoid, Masseter and Temporalis three times a week for 2 weeks. Control group (Group B) was given NSAID's. At the end of treatment prepost comparison was done for temporomandibular (TM) joint range of motion and function. Statistical Analysis Used: Data was analysed with Primer software using Wilcoxon signed rank sum test and Mann–Whitney U-test. Results: Mobility in terms of mouth opening and lateral excursion post intervention in both groups have been significantly improved, however, in the experimental group significant improvement was seen in lateral excursions only. Limitation of daily function score reduced from 22.2 to 5 in the experimental; group and 21.3–13.5 in the control group. However more statistical reduction was seen in the experimental group (P = 0.001). Conclusions: Myofascial release technique along with NSAIDSs was able to improve mobility and function among the TM joint disorder patients with neck pain.