Photobiomodulation therapy in the management of myofascial pain dysfunction syndrome: A randomized triple-blind clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) by two wavelengths in reducing pain and enhancing jaw function in patients with myofascial pain dysfunction syndrome (MPDS).

METHODS

A triple-blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted in 22 patients with MPDS, who were randomly assigned to two groups (n = 11). One group received photobiomodulation therapy using wavelengths of 630 and 810 nm (energy densities: 4-6 J/cm², power: 200 mW, irradiation time: 60 s per point), while the control group underwent sham laser treatment (device turned off), in addition to standard conservative care. The laser was administered daily for the first three days, followed by alternate-day sessions for one week, totaling 12 sessions. Pain intensity was measured using a visual analog scale (VAS), and maximum mouth opening (MMO) was recorded before treatment and at 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-weeks post-treatment. Data were analyzed using independent and paired t-tests, and repeated measures ANOVA.

RESULTS

Both PBMT and control groups experienced significant pain reduction over time (P = 0.0001). The rate of pain reduction was similar in both groups (P = 0.89). Both groups showed significant MMO improvement (P = 0.015), but the trend in improvement was not significantly different between them (P = 0.86).

CONCLUSION

Photobiomodulation therapy, under the tested parameters, reduced pain and improved jaw function in patients with MPDS, comparable to conventional conservative care.