Abstract

VAN DER COLFF, H; DOCRAT, A; SINGH, D  and  PILLAY, JD. Perceived knowledge, treatment approaches and predictors of referral practices in myofascial pain syndrome of the temporomandibular joint. S. Afr. dent. j. [online]. 2024, vol.79, n.6, pp.312-318. ISSN 0375-1562.  https://doi.org/10.17159/sadj.v79i06.17942.

INTRODUCTION: Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MFPS) of the head and neck is a frequently misdiagnosed cause of Temporomandibular Disorders (TMDs). In South Africa, literature regarding general dental practitioners' (GDPs) knowledge/management of TMDs associated with MFPS is limited AIM: To determine perceived knowledge and treatment practices of GDPs on TMDs associated with MFPS DESIGN/METHODS: A researcher-developed questionnaire consisting of sections on demographics, education/training, perceived knowledge and treatment/management, including referral practices, was conducted on GDPs registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa, sampled through this database RESULTS: More than three-quarters (n=40; 76.9%) of GDPs received MFPS training at the undergraduate level with 78.8% (n=41) dissatisfied with their knowledge and 57.7% (n=30) having attended postgraduate training. More than two-thirds (69.2%; n=36) referred patients to other healthcare professionals - mostly dental specialists (83.3%; n=30). Adjusted logistic regression revealed that those with adequate knowledge of MFPS were 6.52 times more likely to refer patients to other health practitioners than those with inadequate knowledge (OR=6.5, p=0.28, B=1.88); 73.1% (n=38) would consider such co-management strategies CONCLUSION: This study highlights the gap in GDPs' perceived knowledge in MFPS and TMDs. Supplementary training and mutual referral between allopathic and alternative medical professions is recommended for a more integrated treatment approach

Keywords : Dentist; myofascial pain syndrome; trigger points; temporomandibular joint disorders; surveys and questionnaires; referral and consultation.

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