Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 11, 2026

Temporomandibular Joint Pain Measurement by Bite Force and Von Frey Filament Assays in Mice
Published on: September 13, 2024
Classifying muscle dysfunction in temporomandibular disorders: Review and novel proposed classification
Jayce Gilbert1, George Dimitroulis2
1Peak MSK Physio, Unit 6 / 328 Reserve Road, Cheltenham, VIC, 3192, Australia; Melbourne Oral Medicine Centre, Level 2 / 70 City Rd, Southbank, VIC, 3006, Australia; Tasmanian Oral, Maxillofacial and Implant Surgery, 30 Cascade Road, South Hobart, TAS, 7004, Australia.
Background:
Muscular Temporomandibular Disorders (mTMD) are musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders that have an unclear etiopathology, making clinical diagnosis and classification important for targeted treatment. Current taxonomies focus on pain reproduction, whereas MSK evaluation encompasses other clinical assessments. The ability to align taxonomy to MSK evaluation would improve diagnosis and targeted treatment.
Objective:
Review the recent clinical research for mTMD and identify emergent constructs to reframe the current taxonomy for myalgia classification of the Diagnostic Classification for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD). This mapped information formed the basis of the presented reframed classification for mTMD.
Methods:
A scoping review, following PRISMA guidelines searched PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane for studies (2022-2025) involving humans with mTMD. Studies were assessed by two independent reviewers for use of any classification system, including additional assessments that introduce novel concepts to classify mTMD.
Results:
16 papers were selected from the search criteria. They evaluated and classified their cohorts according to somatosensory profiles, latent phenotypes, psychosocial characteristics or by novel assessment. The evidence was used to conceptualise a pragmatic five-category stratification for mTMD, with accompanying examination and management suggestions to enhance clarity in diagnosis, treatment and research.
Related Concept Videos
Classification of Skeletal Muscle Relaxants
Peripherally acting skeletal muscle relaxants interfere with the neurotransmission at the neuromuscular end plate to induce paralysis during...
Disorders of the Skeletal Muscle
Musculoskeletal disorders
Musculoskeletal disorders involve injuries and conditions affecting the skeletal muscles and associated connective tissues. These disorders can arise from acute biomechanical stresses or chronic overuse and can occur across different age groups. Common injuries include sprains, fractures, and muscular strains, often resulting from...
Alterations in Muscle Tone lll
Alterations in Muscle Tone ll
Classification of Skeletal Muscle Fibers
Slow-Twitch Muscle Fibers
Slow oxidative, muscle fibers appear red due to large numbers of capillaries and high levels of...
Functional Classification of Joints
The functional classification of joints is determined by the amount of mobility between the adjacent bones. Joints are functionally classified as a synarthrosis or immobile joint, an amphiarthrosis or slightly moveable joint, or as a diarthrosis, a freely moveable joint. Fibrous and cartilaginous joints can be functionally classified as either synarthroses or amphiarthroses, whereas all synovial joints are classified as diarthroses.
Synarthrosis
An immobile...

