Investigation of the Effects of Kinesio Taping and Manual Therapy in Patients With Bruxism

Investigation of the Effects of Kinesio Taping and Manual Therapy in Patients With Bruxism

Bruxism is defined as a repetitive jaw-muscle activity characterized by tooth grinding or clenching accompanied with wearing of the teeth, and jaw muscle discomfort in the absence of a medical disorder . Bruxism has two distinct circadian manifestations: it can be nocturnal or diurnal. Hypertrophy of the masseter muscle is an objective sign of bruxism. Additionally, fatigue or stiffness in the masticatory muscles, pain in the temporomandibular joint or headaches are subjective signs of bruxism. According to literature, 85% to 90% of the general population experience episodes of bruxism during their lives. Thus, finding an effective treatment method for bruxism is crucial.The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of two different physiotherapy approaches on the masseter muscle thickness and stiffness in patients with Bruxism.

There is no certain treatment for Bruxism. However, the most recent recommendation is to follow the Multiple-P approach prior to medical drug regimens and invasive procedures. Different methods used in the conservative management of Bruxism are known as the "multiple-P" approach, which consists of; physiotherapy, plates, pep talk, pills and psychology . Physiotherapy generally focuses on two objectives: decreasing the adverse effects of bruxism to the masticatory muscles and increasing self-awareness regarding this habit. These studies involve different intervention such as massage of the masticatory and cervical muscles, electrotherapy, therapeutic exercises, taping interventions or relaxation therapies . However, literature regarding which physiotherapy intervention is the most effective in bruxism is not clear. Therefore patients in this study were randomly divided into one of two groups; manual therapy or kinesio taping. All patients were assessed at baseline, received 4 weeks of treatment and were assessed following the 4 weeks.

Inclusion Criteria:

• A Bruxism Diagnosis according to the criteria of the international classification for sleep disorders
• Self-report of awake bruxism

Exclusion Criteria:

• Having more than 2 missing teeth
• The presence of removable partial dentures
• Having neurological, psychiatric or motor disorders
• Having any ongoing dental or physical therapy
• Active cancer