Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 6, 2026
09:35
Subcutaneous Trigeminal Nerve Field Stimulation for Refractory Facial Pain
Published on: May 10, 2017
19.0K
Temporomandibular Disorder Treatment With Diathermy Stimulation Technique: A Pilot Study
Funda Goker1,2,3, Andrea Gizdulich4, Ishita Singhal1
1Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, 20122, Milan, Italy, unimi.it.
International Journal of Dentistry
|January 1, 2026
Summary
Diathermy stimulation shows promise for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, improving function and quality of life. This pilot study suggests diathermy is a beneficial noninvasive treatment for TMJ issues without disc dislocation.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Background:
- Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) encompasses various treatment options, including noninvasive methods like diathermy.
- Diathermy utilizes controlled high-frequency energy to generate therapeutic heat, addressing conditions such as osteoarthritis and muscle pain.
- This pilot study focuses on diathermy's efficacy for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues, specifically in patients without internal disc dislocation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of diathermy stimulation rehabilitation for patients experiencing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems.
- To assess improvements in TMD-related pain, jaw mobility, and quality of life using the diagnostic criteria for temporomandibular disorder (DC-TMD) questionnaire.
- To determine if diathermy is a beneficial noninvasive treatment modality for TMJ disorders.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the diagnostic criteria for temporomandibular disorder (DC-TMD) questionnaire, with 47 questions across 8 categories, to assess pain, jaw mobility, and quality of life.
- Patients received weekly diathermy stimulation sessions for five consecutive weeks.
- Pre and post-treatment data were collected at each session, with the first session (T0) serving as the baseline for evaluating improvements.
Main Results:
- A cohort of 10 patients (8 women, 2 men; aged 22-50) participated in the study.
- While most categories showed a trend toward improvement with decreasing mean scores over time, only the Mandibular Functional Limitation Scale (LM) demonstrated a statistically significant improvement.
- Patients reported a reduction in functional limitations related to their jaw mobility.
Conclusions:
- Diathermy applications appear beneficial for improving temporomandibular joint (TMJ) related disorders.
- While not a complete cure, diathermy can enhance the quality of life for patients suffering from TMJ issues.
- Further research may be warranted to explore diathermy's full potential in managing TMJ disorders.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Flail Chest-II
1.0K
Managing flail chest, a condition characterized by a segment of the chest wall moving independently from the rest of the thoracic cage, requires a comprehensive approach. It includes a thorough assessment of the patient's condition, a diagnostic evaluation to determine the extent of the injury, and the implementation of appropriate medical interventions tailored to the individual's needs.
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
1.0K
01:25Tracheostomy Care II: Procedure
2.9K
Tracheostomy care is an essential nursing skill that involves cleaning and maintaining a tracheostomy tube to prevent infection and other complications. Here's a step-by-step guide explaining each procedure with its rationale. Note that disposable gloves are to be worn at all times and changed as often as needed to maintain a sterile work environment, and to protect both patient and healthcare worker.
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene, and put on personal protective equipment: gown, gloves, mask...
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene, and put on personal protective equipment: gown, gloves, mask...
2.9K
01:24Prosopagnosia
1.3K
Prosopagnosia, also known as face blindness, is the inability to recognize faces. In severe cases, individuals with prosopagnosia may not recognize close family members, including parents and spouses, by their faces. For instance, someone with prosopagnosia might walk past their child in a crowd, only realizing their mistake upon noticing their child's distinctive backpack or favorite jacket. Prosopagnosia specifically impairs facial recognition, while the recognition of other objects or...
1.3K
01:26Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management
539
Mitral stenosis, a condition marked by the narrowing of the mitral valve, necessitates an integrated approach for effective management. This approach includes preventative measures, medical therapy, and surgical interventions to reduce symptoms and prevent complications.PreventionPrevention of mitral stenosis primarily focuses on reducing the incidence of bacterial infections, particularly streptococcal infections, which can lead to rheumatic fever and subsequent valvular damage. Timely...
539
01:28Traumatic Brain Injury l: Introduction
39
DefinitionTraumatic brain injury, or TBI, is a disturbance of normal brain function induced by an external mechanical force, such as a direct blow to the head or a penetrating injury. It can affect both brain structure and function, producing a wide range of clinical outcomes. TBI is a heterogeneous condition, meaning its effects may differ based on the type, location, and severity of the injury.Basis of ClassificationTBI is classified based on severity, injury mechanism, or pathophysiology. In...
39