Two Efficacy Studies for Acute TMJ Related Headaches and Chronic Headaches

This project focused on two efficacy studies. The aim of the first study conducted by Dr. Robert Gatchel at University of Texas at Arlington was to evaluate the efficacy of the Biobehavioral, Self-care, and Non-Intervention treatment groups on the presence and distress of the headache symptom related to acute temporomandibular joint disorder. The study consists of a cohort of 283 patients with acute TMD. Participants are being referred to UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas through the community dental clinics in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. Questionnaires were administered to patients before and after treatment. At the time of data collection 283 participants were enrolled in the study. 238 participants (84%) of 283 met eligibility requirements and were placed in one of the three treatment groups.91 participants endorsed having regular headaches that are either new or different from headaches you had prior to the onset of your illness. A Pearson Chi-Square (χ2) found a significant difference in the presence of headaches before treatment (χ2 = 11.082, p =.004). No significant difference was found in the presence of headaches after treatment (χ2 = .335, p =.846). Non-Parametric analysis found a significant difference of improvement (.021) in the Biobehavioral group post-treatment. A significant difference of improvement (.023) was also found in the Self-care group post-treatment. Non- Parametric analysis found a significant improvement of distress of headache in each treatment group. This study shows a significant prevalence of 38% headaches related to TMD. It also shows that Biobehavioral and Self-care treatments significantly reduce headache presence. The study also finds a psychological effect of “attending the project” in decreasing levels of distress relating to headaches. The second study aimed to measure the effectiveness of a dental technique pioneered by Dr. Neeley DDS. Patients were referred through his private dental clinic in Dallas, TX. Qualitative analysis was used through a case study of 6 patients of an original 12. The data from the second study indicated that this treatment is very efficacious. All 6 participants showed a reduction in headache symptoms and all reported satisfaction with their treatment over a year later.