Positive outcome of occlusal freeway space reestablishment in patients with medication overuse due to chronic migraine

Abstract

Considering the great chapter of migraines, it is important to note the signs and symptoms caused by an alteration of the relationship of the facial musculature and the occlusal freeway space (FWS) that is the distance from maximal intercuspation to the habitual rest position (measurable in 1.4-2.5 mm). To any mandible position changing (detected by periodontal, muscle and joint proprioceptors), there is an influence on the neuromuscular system and then an alteration of the FWS. A group of 60 patients with chronic migraine (CM) underwent a withdrawal of overused medication and were subjected to electromyographic and kinesiographic evaluation. All those who presented an alteration of the FWS at rest position have been subjected to treatment with orthosis device for about 12 months. The aim of our work is to obtain and define a correct mandibular position, physiological, in agreement with the neuromuscular structures of the patient. Clinical results obtained on this pool of patients, in terms of reduction of the VAS, let us understand the importance of the inviolability of the FWS and to eliminate any type of mandibular deviation with respect to the closure trajectory induced by TENS in patients suffering from CM.