Treatment of myofascial pain with a rapid laser therapy protocol compared to occlusal splint: A double-blind, randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Objective: To compare the effect of a rapid low-level laser therapy (LLLT) protocol to Michigan occlusal splint in the treatment of myofascial pain, as well as to evaluate their impact on Oral Health-Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL).

Methods: Thirty participants were randomly allocated into three groups: G1: occlusal splint (n = 11), G2: LLLT (n = 10), and G3: LLLT placebo (n = 9). LLLT and placebo were applied in the points of pain upon palpation.

Results: G1 presented improvement in pain (p = 0.014) and in the diagnosis of myofascial pain (p = 0.008), while G2 and G3 did not. Regarding OHRQoL, G1 and G2 presented significant improvement (p = 0.005, in both), whereas, G3 did not.

Conclusion: Michigan occlusal splint was effective in reducing pain and improving OHRQoL. Treatment with the rapid LLLT protocol only provided an improvement in OHRQoL.

Keywords: Temporomandibular joint disorders; low level laser therapy; myofascial pain syndromes; occlusal splints.