THE APPLICATION OF RADIOFREQUENCY WAVES IN THE MANAGEMENT OF ORAL MAXILLOFACIAL PAIN

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) represent a common and complex clinical condition, defined by the American Academy of Orofacial Pain as a group of muscular and neuromuscular disorders which affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and those structures connected to it. These disorders involve orofacial pain, limitation of mandibular movements and the presence of joint sounds. Epidemiological studies indicate a significant prevalence of TMDs in the European population, with relevant impact on the patients’ quality of life. The diagnosis of TMDs relies on several tools, including the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD), a standardized system based on a biopsychosocial model that allows an integrated assessment of the physical (Axis I) and psychosocial (Axis II) aspects of the disorder, providing detailed information on pain intensity, frequency and duration, as well as on its functional and emotional impact. The nature of TMDs which are frequently chronic, makes their therapeutic process quite complex, this has stimulated research into alternative and non-invasive approaches, including the use of radiofrequency diathermy. Diathermy employs high-frequency electromagnetic waves to generate endogenous tissue heating, promoting muscle relaxation, reduction of infection, and improvement of blood circulation, with potential benefits for pain relief and joint function. Compared with other therapeutic options, such as occlusal splints, botulinum toxin injections, or systemic pharmacotherapy, diathermy is generally well tolerated, non-invasive and associated with rapid symptomatic relief. However, the studies available are still limited and defined by considerable heterogeneity in treatment protocols and this makes comparisons between different studies quite difficult and hinders the identification of standardized parameters for performing and safe results.Within this context, the present study aims to evaluate the efficiency of radiofrequency diathermic stimulation in handling the pain and muscle dysfunction associated with TMDs in patients without internal displacement of the joint disc. This will be achieved using the DC/TMD questionnaire as a standardized tool for outcome assessment. Specifically, the objective is to analyze the impact of the treatment on pain symptoms, mandibular function and patients’ subjective perception, thereby contributing to filling existing gaps in the literature regarding standardized therapeutic protocols and the short-term duration of diathermy effects.