Anatomical Bases of the Temporal Muscle Trigger Points

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Neuroscience

Background:

• The temporal muscle plays a crucial role in mastication.
• Understanding its innervation is key to diagnosing and treating related disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To map the entry points of deep temporal nerve branches within the temporal muscle.
• To correlate nerve branching patterns with muscle function and trigger points.

Main Methods:

• Cadaveric dissection of 14 adult temporal muscles.
• Division of muscle bellies into six areas using a Cartesian plane.
• Statistical analysis of nerve branch distribution using Poisson log-linear tests.

Main Results:

• Deep temporal nerve branches were identified in all studied areas of the temporal muscle.
• Areas 2 and 5 showed the highest density of nerve branches, corresponding to mandible elevation fibers.
• Areas 1 and 6, associated with mandible retraction, had fewer nerve branches.

Conclusions:

• A significant anatomical correlation exists between deep temporal nerve branching and temporal muscle trigger points.
• Knowledge of temporal muscle innervation can inform myofascial pain syndrome pathophysiology and treatment strategies.
• This understanding may help prevent iatrogenic deep temporal nerve injuries during surgical procedures.