Masticatory Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Masticatory myofascial pain syndrome (MMPS) is a common and debilitating orofacial pain condition characterized by localized or referred pain originating from trigger points in the masticatory muscles. The condition significantly impairs quality of life, affecting mastication, speech, and psychosocial well-being. The masseter and temporalis muscles are the most frequently targeted muscles in conventional botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) therapy for MMPS; however, the medial pterygoid muscle, a primary jaw-closing muscle, is often overlooked due to its deep anatomical location and the technical challenges associated with its injection.

The purpose of this study is to assess the diagnostic accuracy of diffusion MRI for evaluation of the jaw muscles for patients with masticatory myofascial pain syndrome.