TMD and Biofeedback

This review article assessed the efficacy of biofeedback treatment on temporomandibular disorders (TMD). It measured how successful the treatment was and if treatment effects were sustained over time. Six studies were reviewed and analyzed.

Five of the six studies displayed evidence of biofeedback's efficacy as compared to placebo or no treatment controls, and significantly effected patient's pain outcomes. 70% of patients were either symptom-free or significantly improved after receiving treatment. At follow-up patient's pain status had remained the same, or improved. Compare this to other studies in which 50% of patient's treated with conservative care had failed to improve.

To explain why biofeedback is successful the authors hypothesize that, "it enhances awareness of activity in facial and masticatory muscles, thereby improving patients' ability to detect, label and voluntarily reduce muscle tension before it reaches uncomfortably high levels."

The authors suggest future research should focus on the optimal protocols of biofeedback treatment: assessing its efficacy from multiple sites, different muscle regions, and using it in conjunction with other stress management techniques.

Crider A and Glaros A. A meta-analysis of EMG biofeedback treatment of temporomandibular disorders. Journal of Orofacial Pain 1999:13:29-37.

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