The Clinical journal of pain
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Do occlusal splints have an effect on complex regional pain syndrome? A randomized, controlled proof-of-concept trial.
Studies have suggested overlaps between various chronic pain conditions and painful temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). The objective of this pilot study was to assess the effectiveness of occlusal splint (OS) therapy on self-reported measures of pain in patients with chronic complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) as compared with a nontreatment group. ⋯ The use of OS for 7 weeks has no impact on CRPS-related pain but improved signs and symptoms of TMD pain. Future studies should include an active control group and evaluate if long-term changes in measures of oral health impact general health in CRPS-related pain.
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In contrast to the increasing knowledge of the sensory dysfunction involved in chronic whiplash associated disorders, the use of comprehensive quantitative sensory testing in the acute stage of the condition is sparse. In this study, we sought to investigate the presence of sensory hypoesthesia in participants with acute whiplash injury. ⋯ Our findings demonstrate generalized hypoesthesia in acute whiplash associated disorders suggesting adaptive central nervous system processing mechanisms are involved, regardless of pain and disability. The elevated levels of psychologic distress seen in both groups may also play a role.
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The aim of the present study was to investigate the presence of active and latent muscle trigger points (TrPs) in the forearm musculature on both affected and unaffected sides in patients with lateral epicondylalgia (LE) and healthy controls. ⋯ Latent TrPs are present in forearm muscles on the unaffected side in patients with LE where active TrPs contribute to the pain on the affected arm. The presence of latent TrPs on the unaffected side in unilateral LE may be related to central sensitization and be a mechanism explaining bilateral pain in some patients with unilateral pathologies.