Chronic myofacial pain. Reduced pain through psychoeducation and physiotherapy

BACKGROUND: Psychological factors are associated with the emergence and persistence of pain perception. The aim of this pilot study was to assess the psychological factors relating to pain perception in patients with chronic myofacial pain and to investigate the influence of patient information, education and physiotherapy on pain perception and functional jaw opening examined over a 6-month period. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In accordance with the research diagnostic criteria for temporomandibular disorders (RDC/TMD), 40 patients (31 females and 9 males, mean age 38.6 years) with chronic myofacial pain were assessed at 3 time points: on admission (T1), after 3 months (T2) and 6 months (T3). The study included a structured interview and five psychological questionnaires. At all time points patients were informed about the development of pain and the relationship between chronification of pain and psychological risk factors. RESULTS: After 6 months significant improvements in jaw function and quality of life, as well as a decrease in psychological parameters, such as fear and depression were found. Improvement was related to the severity of pain chronification. CONCLUSION: The results show the necessity of early identification of patients with severe pain chronification and the need for psychological pain therapy.