We selected for this study 26 patients with characteristics of myofascial dysfunction, limited opening, and pain or sensitivity in the temporal (anterior and posterior fibers), and masseter muscles, bilaterally. Electromyographic and electrognathographic analyses of these muscles were carried out, and an increase of the electric activity was observed in those muscles mentioned by the patient as symptomatic; free way space was also registered. The next step was to use the TENS, at a low frequency, for 43 minutes, and to evaluate the results. A reduction of the electromyographic values obtained prior to the application of TENS could be observed in the anterior fibers of the temporal and in the masseter muscles. The effect of this reduction on the maxillomandibular relationship was a generalized increase in the free way space.
Maxillomandibular relationship; Electromyographic analysis; Electrognathographic analysis; TENS * utilization
