Comparative evaluation of efficacy of ultrasound therapy and low level laser therapy in temporomandibular disorder patients – a randomized clinical trial

Aim: To compare the effectiveness of Ultrasound therapy and low level laser therapy in the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders. Objectives: To compare the pretreatment and post-treatment pain intensity (VAS score); pretreatment and post-treatment mouth opening (measured as interincisal distance) in selected TMD patients treated with therapeutic ultrasound (USG) and Low level laser therapy (LLLT). Materials and Methods: A total 26 patients were selected as per inclusion criteria. Patients were divided into two groups. 13 patients in each group. Group I was treated with USG and Group II were treated with LLLT. Pain intensity was assessed according to VAS in each session. Inter incisal opening were checked by using verniercaliper before and after the treatment. Results: Mean improvement in VAS in group I was 77.85 (SD- 9.272) and in group II was 69.77 (SD- 12.5575) and the difference in both the group was not statistically significant. Mean improvement in interincisal opening1.31 (SD- 1.1091) in group I was and in group II was 2.62 (SD- 0.9592) and the difference in both the group was statistically significant. P< 0.005 was considered as statisticvally significant. Conclusion: Both USG and LLLT found to be beneficial in patients with TMDs and as per mean score LLLT gives better pain relief.