Effects Of Jaw Muscle Pain On Jaw Muscle Activity And Jaw Movement In Humans
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$337,770.00
Summary
Chronic facial muscle pain is a significant community health problem that is poorly understood. Current treatments are based on the idea that structural or stress-related factors result in increased jaw muscle activity which then generates pain that in turn leads to more muscle activity - the so-called Vicious Cycle Theory. Treatments therefore aim to break the cycle by focussing on reducing muscle activity and thereby alleviate the pain. There is currently, however, little scientific evidence f ....Chronic facial muscle pain is a significant community health problem that is poorly understood. Current treatments are based on the idea that structural or stress-related factors result in increased jaw muscle activity which then generates pain that in turn leads to more muscle activity - the so-called Vicious Cycle Theory. Treatments therefore aim to break the cycle by focussing on reducing muscle activity and thereby alleviate the pain. There is currently, however, little scientific evidence for this Theory. Another theory has been recently proposed in the Pain Adaptation Model. This model says that changes in muscle activity and movement are protective against further pain rather than the cause of the pain. The evidence, however, for this model is limited and conflicting. The current lack of understanding of facial muscle pain limits advancement in its management. Our long-term goal is to improve the management of patients with facial pain. The present application aims to determine whether muscle pain alters jaw muscle activity and jaw movement. Our preliminary clinical data provide compelling evidence for the Pain Adaptation Model. We are confident of a better understanding of what goes wrong in the jaw muscles in chronic facial pain and this will have implications for muscle pains elsewhere in the body. The outcome may help to refute the Vicious Cycle Theory, and help shift the focus away from signs and symptoms associated with the jaw muscles, and re-direct the focus to the alleviation of pain as the primary management goal. The information obtained should also provide a solid basis on which treatments can be tested for optimal resolution of symptoms, and an evidence-based approach in the management of facial pain.Read moreRead less
Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) are characterised by pain and limited jaw movement and are a significant issue. Current management is influenced by the view of a simple association between pain and limited movement. This study will test a new theory that an individual's motor response to pain is influenced by the complexity of the jaw motor system as well as the individual's pain experience. This project will point towards individualised recommendations for effective management of TMD.
Control Of Mastication By Periodontal Mechanoreceptors In Man
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$169,990.00
Summary
Despite the importance in chewing and speech, very little is known regarding the fine control of jaw muscles. A thorough understanding of the control of the jaw muscles is at the base of improved diagnosis and treatment of many chewing disorders. For example: We still do not understand the causes of the jaw muscle-joint pain disorder (temporomandibular dysfunction) which accounts for about 5 % of total dental patients. The current treatments, including pain killers, night plates and massage cure ....Despite the importance in chewing and speech, very little is known regarding the fine control of jaw muscles. A thorough understanding of the control of the jaw muscles is at the base of improved diagnosis and treatment of many chewing disorders. For example: We still do not understand the causes of the jaw muscle-joint pain disorder (temporomandibular dysfunction) which accounts for about 5 % of total dental patients. The current treatments, including pain killers, night plates and massage cure only about half of all patients. Improved diagnosis and treatment techniques require more precise elaboration of the neural and muscular mechanisms of chewing. Why do the chewing forces in toothless individuals, despite well fitting dentures, fall to about 20 % of the value in teethed individuals? Do jaw muscles in these subjects weaken because they get less feedback from the receptors around the teeth? How does the chewing force automatically adjust to overcome sudden or gradual changes in the characteristics of foodstuff? Although bite to bite changes in the chewing force is observed in subjects with natural teeth, no such changes occur in toothless subjects or subjects chewing with implanted bridges. How do the receptors adjust the activation of jaw muscles so that bite force is applied in the right direction and right amount at each bite? The aim of this study is to define the importance of the periodontal mechanoreceptors (tiny nerve cells that are situated between the roots of the teeth and the jaw bone that signal bite force to the brain) in the control of jaw muscles. This study will, therefore, illustrate the importance of keeping the teeth and gums healthy for the development of strong, smooth and well-controlled chewing forces, and potentially create opportunities to improve chewing (and thereby quality of life) in toothless individuals or those experiencing other difficulties in chewing.Read moreRead less