Diffusion MRI to measure jaw muscle changes in masticatory myofascial pain
Official title: Development of RPBM for Quantitative Assessment of Myofascial Pain
Run by Weill Medical College of Cornell University · NCT06892041 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study will test whether diffusion MRI can detect differences in the jaw muscles of adults with masticatory myofascial pain syndrome.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 90 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Weill Medical College of Cornell University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (New York, New York and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 4, 2025 |
| Main results expected | July 2026 |
| Study ends | July 2026 |
| Registry record updated | October 1, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06892041 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 18–65 with clinically defined normal or latent/active temporomandibular myofascial pain who can safely undergo MRI are ideal candidates.
✕Probably not a fit
People who are pregnant, have MRI contraindications (for example pacemakers, metal near the head, severe claustrophobia), recent mandibular trauma or recent masseter Botox are unlikely to benefit or be eligible.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This observational study uses diffusion-weighted MRI to quantify tissue properties of the masseter and related jaw muscles in adults with masticatory myofascial pain syndrome. Participants aged 18–65 who meet clinical criteria for normal, latent, or active temporomandibular myofascial pain will undergo MRI scans at Weill Cornell Medicine or New York University. Imaging metrics will be compared with clinical presentation and symptom history to estimate diagnostic accuracy. Individuals with MRI contraindications, recent facial trauma, recent masseter Botox, pregnancy, or recent changes in myofascial pain treatment are excluded.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could provide a noninvasive imaging marker to help diagnose or monitor jaw muscle–related pain.
How similar studies have gone: Diffusion MRI has shown promise in other musculoskeletal applications, but its specific diagnostic use for masticatory myofascial pain is relatively novel and not yet well-established.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Men and women 18-65 years of age * Ability to give informed consent * Symptoms meeting criteria for normal or latent/active temporomandibular myofascial pain Exclusion Criteria: * Contraindications to MRI scanning including severe obesity or difficulty in laying in a supine position, intracranial clips, metal implants, external metallic devices/objects/clips within 10mm of the head, suspected or confirmed metal in the eyes (history of welding or similar activity), claustrophobia, cardiac pacemaker or pacing wires * Pregnancy or breast feeding * Traumatic injury of masticatory muscles or temporomandibular joint within last 12 months * Mandibular fracture within last 12 months * Initiation of additional treatment of myofascial pain within the past 1 month * Received masseter Botox within the last 4 months
Where it's running
-
New York University
New York, New York, United States Recruiting -
Weill Cornell Medicine
New York, New York, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Gene Kim, PhD — Weill Medical College of Cornell University
- Study coordinator: Elizabeth Lane
- Email: ell2032@med.cornell.edu
- Phone: 646-962-8394
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Effect of Orofacial Pain Therapy on Bruxism
This study tests whether gnathological splints can reduce daytime and nighttime bruxism and clenching in adults with masticatory myofascial pain, using a portable 24-hour muscle activity monitor.
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Masticatory Muscle Activity with a 24-Hour Wearable Device
This study tests whether real-world jaw muscle activity relates to stress and parafunctional habits in people with chronic masticatory myofascial pain compared with healthy controls using a wearable EMG device.
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Focused Shockwave Therapy for neck and shoulder pain
A 60-person study tests whether focused shockwave therapy can reduce pain and improve function in adults with chronic neck and shoulder myofascial pain compared with a home exercise program.
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Tele-rehabilitation for rhomboid trigger points in myofascial pain syndrome
This trial tests whether tele-rehabilitation with self-myofascial release and exercise can reduce neck pain and improve function in adults with rhomboid trigger points.
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This trial will test whether dry needling, shock wave therapy (ESWT), or pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) reduces pain and improves function in adults 18–65 with chronic myofascial back pain.
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Reflex therapy and dry needling for jaw muscle and joint pain
This trial will try adding dry needling to standard rehabilitation to see if adults with functional temporomandibular (jaw) pain get less pain, better jaw movement, and improved quality of life.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.