A clinical study on the comparative effectiveness of micronutrient supplementation and physiotherapy in oral sub-mucous fibrosis.

Oral Sub-mucous Fibrosis (OSMF) is a chronic, progressive, potentially malignant disorder linked to areca nut chewing. Multiple therapies have been tried, but no consensus exists on the most effective approach. Therefore, it is of interest to compare the effectiveness of micronutrient supplementation and physiotherapy in managing OSMF. Patients with OSMF were randomly assigned to receive either micronutrient supplementation (Group A) or structured physiotherapy (Group B). Outcomes assessed included mouth opening and burning sensation at baseline and follow-up. Both groups showed symptomatic improvement, with physiotherapy yielding significantly greater gains in mouth opening, while both interventions reduced burning sensation. Physiotherapy is more effective than micronutrient supplementation in improving functional outcomes, though both provide symptomatic relief. Combination therapy may be beneficial.