A REVIEW ON MYOFASCIAL PAIN DYSFUNCTION SYNDROME

Myofascial pain dysfunction syndrome (MPDS) is a type of temporomandibular disorders characterized by dull, aching, radiating pain that may become acute during use of the jaw, and mandibular dysfunction that generally involves a limitation of opening. MPDS is a functional disease related to the masticatory muscles, the neural structures and the temporomandibular joint structures. Frequently, myofascial pain is overlooked as a common cause of chronic pain because of frequent association with joint dysfunction and other pain disorders. Noxious stimulation such as mechanical, emotional, infectious, metabolic, nutritional, or a combination of these may lead to development of spasm with loss of capacity for voluntary relaxation and exhibit an overactive stretch reflex leading to invloluntary shortening of one or more muscles with eccentric position of condyles. There is disorientation of jaw movements and restricted opening of the mouth, and pain due to spasm and decreased relaxation of muscles. This review article focuses on pathophysiology and management of MPDS. Since the etiology of MPDS is multifactorial, the treatment of MPDS should be geared towards complete management rather than symptomatic cure.