Chronic myalgia centrally mediated

The clinical case report of a 50-year-old patient who presented to the Diagnostic and Guidance Service for Patients with Temporomandibular Disorders, at the School of Dentistry, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, with complaint of pain in the facial muscles in a continuous, throbbing manner that was paroxysmal at times, with severe intensity and of a chronic nature. After semiological interdisciplinary examination (dental, speech and physical therapy), the diagnosis suggestive of temporomandibular disorder was reached, characterized by centrally mediated chronic myalgia, associated with articular structures, parafunctional habits, malocclusion and emotional factors. Supportive dental treatment consisted of guidance throughout treatment and use of occlusal splints. After a three-and-a-half-month period of interdisciplinary therapy the patient was discharged with an 80% improvement in pain and increase in mouth opening amplitude. Episodes of pain were related only to moments of stress. The patient was instructed about the need for orthodontic treatment and psycho therapy.