Degenerative temporomandibular joint disorder treated with prolotherapy: Case series

Degenerative joint disease (DJD) of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a progressive disorder marked by cartilage degradation and bone deterioration, leading to chronic pain and dysfunction. While conventional therapies such as occlusal splints, medication, physical therapy, and intra-articular injections aim to alleviate symptoms, they lack regenerative capability. This report showed the potential of prolotherapy, a regenerative injection treatment that stimulates tissue repair, in TMJ DJD patients. Four individuals received 2 or 3 prolotherapy sessions using polydeoxyribonucleotide and 20% dextrose at 3-week intervals, alongside conservative care. Outcomes were evaluated via pain intensity (VAS), maximum mouth opening (MMO), joint noise, and radiographic imaging. All patients reported notable pain relief, sustained MMO over 35 mm, and correction of mandibular deviation. Radiographs revealed cortical bone formation and improved joint surface contour. These findings suggested prolotherapy might promote structural regeneration in TMJ DJD. Further studies are warranted to confirm its long-term efficacy and safety.