Yoga for myofascial orofacial pain–A development and feasibility study

Objective: Myofascial orofacial pain or jaw muscle pain, a common component of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) often comes with substantial burden and high healthcare expenses. The aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of yoga in students experiencing myofascial orofacial pain. Methods: Prospective participants were identified through jaw health screening. 25 students diagnosed with myofascial pain (Research Diagnostic Criteria for TMDs) volunteered for this randomized controlled study. Participants were randomized to one of two interventions for 28 days: either a yoga-inclusive management programme or an active control standard care. The clinical assessors were unaware of the assigned intervention. The outcome measures analysed were the change in pain intensity assessed using graded chronic pain scale (GCPS) and change in pain location and distribution using a digital pain map. Jaw mobility, oral health related quality of life and cognitive factors related to the participant’s understanding of pain were determined at baseline, at 14 days and 28 days post-intervention commencement. Participants response on intervention helpfulness and behavior were assessed using post study feedback and daily diary to evaluate adherence. The group means of the changes were analysed using the Mann Whitney test for all outcome measures except post study feedback where an independent t test was performed. Results 18 (8 yoga; 10 controls) participants completed the study. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups in core outcomes of pain, jaw function, OHQoL and psychological distress. Both groups showed improvement in symptoms. The yoga group reported greater adherence to the intervention (p=0.048) and greater benefit (p=0.03) as compared to active control group. Conclusion: This study provides valuable preliminary insights into intervention’s implementation and offers a foundation for future trials. Clinical Trial Registration: This study was retrospectively registered with Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (https://www.anzctr.org.au/) (Trial Id: ACTRN12623000069651).