The Use of Cryotherapy in the Treatment of Temporomandibular Disorders

Conflict of interest: non-existent has been widely used in the treatment of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) when the patient has painful symptoms. The local effects of cryotherapy include: vasoconstriction; decreasing of inflammation and pain; myorelaxation, reduction of muscle spasm and stiffness 3. Analgesia occurs due to the decreasing of activity of the muscle spindles, the neuromuscular junction, the conduction velocity of the peripheral nerves and hence of the transmission of nociceptive information. The reduction of blood flow also helps to reduce pain by preventing excessive release of the chemical mediators that activate nociceptors 4. Although very effective in relieving pain, it is rarely used, since most speech therapy professionals are not familiar with its usage. However, among the cutaneous stimuli, it is considered one of the most effective pain relief. Cold provides analgesia, often more effective, early and lasting than heat 3. „ INTRODUCTION