The coherence of tension type headache and temporomandibular joint disorders

Abstract

Tension type headache prevalance is 31.7% in Turkish population, as reported by Turkish headache study group. Recently, many studies reported temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJD) as a possible etiologic factor in tension type headache. Temporomandibular joint is a part of functional unit called stomatognathic system, which is involved in chewing and swallowing. TMJD affect the whole system and may cause localized or generalized craniofacial pain. In this study we aimed to investigate the coherence of tension type headache and TMJD. The study (n:65) and control groups (n:31) investigated by a questionnaire and examined far TMJD. MRı was performed if needed. As a result 9 (13%) patients, 7 (78%) female, 2 (22%) male were diagnosed as TMJD. The coherence rate of tension type headache and TMJD is high, when TMJD is considered as a possible etiologic factor. In tension type headache patients, a short questionnaire andan examination far TMJD, and performing MRI if needed may reveal craniomandibular pathologies as a possible etiologic factor.