Correlation between pressure pain threshold and pain intensity in patients with temporomandibular disorders who are compliant or non-compliant with conservative treatment

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the correlation between pain measurements performed using a visual analogue scale (VAS) and pressure pain threshold (PPT) in individuals with temporomandibular disorders who underwent conservative treatment.

Study design: This prospective study assessed 78 individuals diagnosed with myofascial pain, and the treatment consisted of counseling and self-care therapy sessions. Pain was assessed by means of a VAS and PPT at baseline (T0), after 15 to 30 days (T1), and after 75 to 90 days (T2). The participants were divided into two groups: "Compliant Group" and "Non-Compliant Group." The data were analyzed by means of Spearman's correlation test and Friedman's analysis of variance by ranks.

Results: Correlations were not identified between the VAS and PPT values at time points-T0, T1, or T2-in any group.

Conclusion: Although, VAS and PPT represent subjective features, such as the perception of pain, the hypothesis that high pain intensity levels are equivalent to high pain sensitivity levels was not demonstrated.