The Immediate Effects of Ischemic Compression Massage Applied to the Masseter Muscle in Individuals with Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction: A Cross-Sectional Study

Objective: The aim of this study is to examine the immediate effects of ischemic compression applied to the masseter muscle on pain, jaw and neck joint range of motion, and forward head posture in individuals with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Material and Methods: This study was planned as a cross-sectional study with a total of 160 individuals. Ischemic compression was applied to the trigger points in masseter muscle for 90 seconds with a moderate tolerable pressure. Pain intensity was evaluated with Visual Analogue Scale, cervical range of motion was evaluated with a universal goniometer, jaw movements were evaluated with a rigid tape measure, and craniovertebral angle was evaluated with a modified universal goniometer. Dysfunction was classified according to the Helkimo Clinical Craniomandibular Dysfunction Index. Results: After the intervention, dysfunction score was decreased (p<0.001). There was no significant difference in resting pain scores (p>0.05); however pain scores of gum chewing, and TMJ and masseter muscle palpation decreased (p<0.05). Increase in TMJ movements was found; mouth opening, mouth forward protrusion, and mouth lateral deviation values all increased (p<0.001). Cervical joint movements and craniovertebral angle also increased (p<0.01). Conclusion: The present findings indicated that ischemic compression applied to the masseter muscle in individuals with TMJ disorder immediately reduced pain (except resting pain), improved jaw and neck range of motion, and forward head posture. Comparative studies are needed to examine the long-term effects of these results.