Psychological stress in orofacial neuromuscular problems.

J. D. Rugh

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

9 Scopus citations

Abstract

Several forms of treatment for orofacial neuromuscular problems are based on the hypothesis that muscle hyperactivity due to psychological stress is a key factor in the aetiology. This paper reviews the evidence for this belief and describes the results of a study of muscular activity over a prolonged period by means of a portable battery powered electromyographic recording apparatus. In earlier studies of nocturnal masseter muscle activity ther was found a correlation between nocturnal bruxism and reports of stress. More recent studies covering activity for 24 hours per day have suggested that periods of muscle hyperactivity are correlated with specific daily activities but that there is great variability between patients. It is not yet possible to determine whether the patient's report of anxiety is the result or the cause of the orofacial muscular pain problem. It is evident that other parameters require evaluation.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)202-205
Number of pages4
JournalInternational dental journal
Volume31
Issue number3
StatePublished - Sep 1981

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Dentistry

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