The ultrasonic value of local muscle hypertrophy in patients with temporomandibular joint disorders.

Muscle pain and tenderness on palpation are two common symptoms in patients with temporomandibular joint disorders. Examination of the masticatory muscles is largely restricted to the use of electromyography. The technique of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of muscle hypertrophy in patients with temporomandibular joint disorders was investigated. The results of the study indicate that ultrasonography may be beneficial to locate affected muscles that do not exhibit symptoms of tenderness on palpation and thereby give hints for treatment planning.