Work

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

Year: 2025

Type: article

Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial

Abstract: • Photobiomodulation therapy effectively reduced pain and improved mouth opening in patients with myofascial pain and dysfunction syndrome, showing comparable outcomes to conventional non-invasive treatments. • Photobiomodulation therapy showed greater initial pain control, although this advantage diminished in the following weeks. • These findings emphasize the need for further research to optimize photobiomodulation parameters and evaluate its integration with other therapeutic modalities. 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). 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 seconds 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. 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). Photobiomodulation therapy, under the tested parameters, effectively reduced pain and improved jaw function in patients with MPDS, comparable to conventional conservative care.

Source: Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy

DOI: 10.1016/j.pdpdt.2025.105239

Authors: Amin Khaleghi, Behzad Salari, Sahar Mafi, Reza Fekrazad

Institutions: Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University Central Tehran Branch, Universal Scientific Education and Research Network

Language: English

Topic: Laser Applications in Dentistry and Medicine

Subfield: Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Imaging

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,610