Abstract: ObjectiveTo observe the effect of acupoint rotating magnetic field(RMF) therapy on the pain and Fricton's index in patients with temporomandibular disorders(TMD).Methods65 TMD patients, who met the inclusive criteria, were randomly divided into two groups: the acupoint rotating magnetic therapy group(treatment group, n=35) and the ultrashortwave diathermy group (control group, n=30). The treatment group received XZC-A rotating magnetic field therapy at the acupoints in the affected side, including Xiaguan(ST7), Tinggong(SI19), Jiache(ST6), Yifeng(SJ17) and Ashi, 10 minutes for each acupiont, the course of treatment was performed twice daily for 10 days. The control group was treated with ultrashortwave diathermy for 15～20 min once daily, and considered 10 days as a course of treatment. The patients were evaluated before and after the treatment through Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Fricton's Craniomandibular Index(CMI) respectively.ResultsThe values of VAS and CMI in the both groups significantly reduced after a course of treatment respectively (P<0-05), and there were significant differences regarding the post-therapy values of VAS and CMI (P<0-05) between two groups. The values of VAS and CMI in the treatment group reduced more significantly than those in the control group(P<0-05).ConclusionAcupoint rotating magnetic field therapy can relieve the pain and improve the functions of TMD in patients with temporomandibular joint disorder.

Key words: temporomandibular disorders, rotating magnetic field, acupoint, Visual Analogue Scale, Fricton's Craniomandibular Index