Electromyography-guided percutaneous needle electrolysis for masticatory myofascial pain: A prospective clinical study.

BACKGROUND

Masticatory myofascial pain syndrome (MMPS) is characterized by the presence of trigger points (TrPs) in the masticatory musculature. Percutaneous needle electrolysis (PNE) is a minimally invasive technique with proven efficacy in tendinopathies, although its application in the temporomandibular region is limited. The objective was to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of a single session of electromyography (EMG)-guided PNE on pain, function, and mandibular mobility in patients with MMPS.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

A prospective clinical study was designed involving 26 patients diagnosed with MMPS with active TrPs (80.8% women). A single session of PNE was administered to the masticatory musculature under EMG monitoring. Pain intensity (visual analogue scale), mandibular mobility (maximum interincisal opening, lateral and protrusive excursions), and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) function were evaluated using a validated questionnaire. Measurements were obtained at baseline and at 7, 30, 90, and 180 days post-treatment. Non-parametric tests were performed for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

A statistically significant reduction in pain intensity was observed from the first week post-intervention (VAS score: 6.64 vs. 2.76; p<0.001), which remained sustained throughout the 6-month follow-up. The global functional assessment of the TMJ and all ranges of mandibular mobility showed significant early increases (day 7), which remained unaltered and clinically meaningful until the end of the study. Mild and self-limiting adverse effects were experienced by 11.5% of the patients.

CONCLUSIONS

A single session of EMG-guided PNE constitutes a useful therapeutic alternative for the management of MMPS, as it provides early and sustained pain reduction, along with a significant restoration of mandibular dynamics and function. Controlled comparative studies are needed before its efficacy can be definitively established.