Abstract: Objective To observe the effect of the Western massage combined with muscle energy technique on masticatory muscle disorders. Methods 58 patients with masticatory muscle disorders were randomly divided into control group (n=29) and observation group (n=29). The control group accepted ultrashort wave therapy, while the observation group accepted the Western massage and muscle energy technique. They were assessed with Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) of pain and Friction index of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) before and 4 weeks after treatment. Results The scores of VAS and Friction index of the TMJ decreased in both groups (P<0.001), and decreased more in the observation group than in the control group (P<0.001). Conclusion The combination of Western massage and muscle energy technique is advanced for masticatory muscle disorders.

Key words: masticatory muscle disorders, Western massage, muscle energy technique