A survey of treatments for myofascial pain dysfunction.

A survey of all active U.S. members of the American Equilibration Society was undertaken in order to identify the most commonly used treatments for myofascial pain dysfunction. A questionnaire was constructed such that myofascial pain dysfunction was defined, all treatments (including referral) were listed, and a percentage-of-use estimate for each treatment was requested. Results from 302 error-free questionnaires showed that the most common treatments were: interocclusal splints with anterior/canine guidance, occlusal equilibration, flat plane interocclusal splints, diet counseling, anti-inflammatory medication, non-narcotic analgesics, and muscle relaxants. A call is issued for systematic and careful research on the outcomes of these treatments.