Myofascial Pain

Myofascial pain dysfunction syndrome is a common term that is used in other medical branches outside of Dentistry. But in the last few decades, this term has been used in Dental Medicine to describe orofacial chronic pain, often abbreviated in the literature as MPDS or MYOFASCIAL PAIN (MFP). Myofascial pain (MFP) can be a very uncomfortable condition for a patient. The patient can barely move their mandible, and often there is pain in the face and head area. Sometimes, the pain may extend to neck and dorsal area. It is quite common and treatable. However, if left undiagnosed and untreated, it may develop into chronic pain with overlying psychosocial and functional problems. This may lead to further distress, anxiety and even depression. The vicious cycle may give rise to further somatic preoccupation. This major source of musculoskeletal dysfunction requires more focused attention. Its early diagnosis and treatment may help to reduce overlying psychosocial complications and the attending financial burden of chronic pain syndrome.