A Clinical Assessment of Mesotherapy as A Therapeutic Intervention for Myofascial Pain Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial

The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) are among the most frequently used joints in the body, opening and closing approximately 2,000 times a day. These joints are essential for various critical activities, including verbal and nonverbal communication, the challenging movements involved in chewing, and even the more subtle action of breathing. Healthy functioning of both the TMJs and the surrounding tissues is crucial for these activities. Additionally, the joints play a vital role in interpersonal interactions and contribute to facial expressions that convey emotions such as joy or sadness, as well as impacting self-esteem and self-identity.

Temporomandibular disorders are recognized as the most common chronic orofacial pain condition, with no significant differences found between racial groups. As previously defined, TMD refers to a group of pain conditions and dysfunctions, and not all epidemiological studies have used the same classification or differentiated between muscle and joint disorders. Indeed,inclusion criteria employed in studies before modern classifications encompassed some disorders into one entity.

This questions the validity of much of the epidemiologic research performed before criteria and diagnoses were standardized. This prevalence highlights the widespread impact of these conditions and underscores the critical need for effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

The pathophysiology of TMJ disorders is complex, involving factors such as mechanical stress, inflammation, and genetic predisposition. These disorders typically affect the masticatory muscles, the TMJ itself, and the dentition,reflecting their multifaceted nature.

Management of TMJ disorders often requires a multidisciplinary approach,incorporating both conservative and invasive treatments tailored to the condition's severity and underlying causes.Among conservative treatments, mesotherapy has gained attention as a minimally invasive technique. This method involves intradermal or subcutaneous injections of pharmacological agents. The localized delivery allows for a timereleased therapeutic effect, minimizing systemic exposure.