The use of bilateral EMG equalization training in the treatment of temporomandibular joint dysfunction—A case report

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Abstract
This paper describes a single-subject experiment testing two methods of using EMG biofeedback in the treatment of TMJ dysfunction. Following a baseline period, electrodes were placed on the left and right masseter muscles, and the subject was taught general relaxation of this area using visual biofeedback. Although data supported the conclusion that the subject had indeed learned to relax, this was not associated with any change in the report of pain or dysfunction. Equalization training, the goal being to equalize the levels of EMG in the right and left masseter muscles, was then begun. Once the patient had learned to maintain equal levels of EMG, relaxation was then re-introduced. This produced substantial decreases in her reported pain, both within the session and averaged across days for the time between sessions. These treatment gains were maintained at 2-month follow-up.