Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation versus virtual reality on temporomandibular disorder following maxillofacial surgery

Introduction: Temporomandibular disorder is very common postoperative complication following oral surgery. It is including several symptoms as pain, oedema, ROM restrictions and trismus. Objective: The study compared the effect of TENS and virtual reality on temporomandibular disorder following maxillofacial surgery. Methodology: Sixty patients (male and female) with ages ranged from 30-45 years with temporomandibular joint disorders post maxillofacial surgery randomized into two equivalent groups. Group A was given TENS in addition to traditional physiotherapy program which include (mobilizing exercises, ROM exercises, isometric contraction exercises, and massage) 3 times a week for four weeks, while Group B was given virtual reality plus the traditional physiotherapy program, 3 times a week for four weeks. Assessment of pain was done through a visual analogue scale (VAS) while maximum mouth opening (MMO) was determined in millimetres using a ruler at baseline and following the treatment program. Results: The comparison between the two groups posttreatment exposed a significant improvement in both VAS and MMO for Group A while Group B showed significant improvements in (MMO) and non-significant pain reduction (p < 0.001). Discussion: Findings from studies, including those by Carrougher, G., have provided valuable insights. J., et al., Esteban-Sopeña, J. et al., and Tejera, D. M. et al., conflicted with this study's conclusions. Conclusions: Combining TENS therapy with and physical exercises alleviated temporomandibular pain after maxillofacial surgery, while integrating Virtual Reality with physical exercises showed greater improvements in maximum mouth opening.