Assessing temporomandibular joint pain and function before and after using of polarized light

Aim: The objective was to assess the effectiveness of a therapy using low energy polarized light (PL) devices, in reducing pain, promoting healing of soft tissue injuries, and reducing inflammation, improving function and quality of life of the Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD) patients. Materials and Methods: 45 patients (30 female), with TMD diagnosed using standard criteria, were assessed using electromyography (EMG) and computerized mandibular scan (K6). 8-minute PL therapy has been applied, 3 times per week for 4 weeks. No other treatment was given, and patients were asked to refrain from taking analgesics during the study. Polarized light therapy used a non-invasive optical device to project a beam of light on TMJ. Patient-reported questionnaires (PROs) and performance measures are used to assess TMD pain and function in clinical practice. Results and Conclusions: Statistically significant reductions in pain and muscular spams, improvements in function and increases in muscular strength were reported (compared to baseline measures). (P<0.01). The PL characteristics enable to penetrate the skin and underlying tissues in order to stimulate various biological processes. PL improves microcirculation, stimulates regeneration and repair, promotes wound healing and relieves pain, with no adverse effects. PL could be a valid alternative or concomitant treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders.