Pain catastrophizing in Temporomandibular Disorders patients

Objectives: Studies have shown that high level of pain catastrophizing may be a risk factor for developing chronic pain. The purpose of the present study was to examine the utility of assessment of pain catastrophizing in Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) patients.
Methods: Retrospective study of 163 patients who were referred to an Orofacial Pain Clinic with a proposed diagnosis of TMD. Subjects underwent a complete TMD evaluation, according to the diagnostic criteria for TMD (DC/TMD) including all Axis I and II parameters. To assess pain catastrophizing level, the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) questionnaire was added.
Results: Significant differences between subjects high and low in pain catastrophizing were found as to all Axis II parameters. Pain catastrophizing increased the odds of high pain persistency by over 6 times.
Conclusions: Patients who present high disability and high pain catastrophizing level may benefit from early diagnosis and proper cognitive treatment. The current study supports adding an assessment for pain catastrophizing as part of the evaluation process of TMD patients.