J Orofac Pain
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To investigate the influence of noxious stimulation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) on conditioned pain modulation (CPM) and the possible influence of gender on such CPM effects in the craniofacial region of humans. ⋯ Acute noxious stimulation of the TMJ does not alter the magnitude of CPM effects on masseter muscle pain in either gender. It is suggested that deficiencies in CPM in persistent pain conditions are most likely more related to the duration of clinical pain than the pain per se.
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Comparative Study
Comparison of techniques for evaluation of deep pain sensitivity in the craniofacial region.
To determine whether a new palpometer and manual palpation can detect site-to-site differences in human craniofacial pain sensitivity in a similar pattern to that of an electronic pressure algometer and subsequently to compare between-session and within-session variability of palpometer and manual palpation. ⋯ The palpometer and manual palpation could detect differences in craniofacial sensitivity in healthy subjects, with no significant differences between repeated sessions. All techniques showed the highest sensitivity at the retromandibular site and the lowest at the temporalis muscle site. The palpometer had lower within-session variability compared with manual palpation.
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To compare patients with combined tension-type headache and myofascial temporomandibular disorder (TMD) with control subjects on two measures of central processing-ie, temporal summation and aftersensations to heat stimulation in the trigeminal nerve and spinal nerve territories. ⋯ The results from this pilot study suggest that aftersensations to painful heat stimulation can appear without temporal summation. Furthermore, the developed test protocol has a good predictive value and may have the potential to discriminate between tension-type headache/TMD patients and control subjects.
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To test whether patients with temporomandibular disorder (TMD) pain differ from subjects from the general population with regard to their stress-related coping styles. ⋯ Differences in the applied stress-related coping styles of TMD patients and subjects without TMD may have implications for clinical decision making and choosing among treatment alternatives.
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To use a range of evaluation instruments to assess the content and quality of websites about temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and thereby provide guidance regarding the actual accuracy and comprehensiveness of the information of the sites. ⋯ Sites concerning TMD were poorly organized and maintained. Also, most sites contained insufficient or scientifically incorrect information that could have a negative effect on the treatment outcome and prognosis of TMD. Clinicians should guide patients to reputable sources of information that will enhance patient comprehension and better treatment outcomes.