Topical treatment for jaw pain
Official title: Comparison of Topical 1% Diclofenac and Topical 2.5% Hydrocortisone for TMJ Arthralgia
Run by University of the Pacific · NCT05816226 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a stronger hydrocortisone cream can help people with jaw pain feel better compared to a different cream.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 3 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 90 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of the Pacific Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (San Francisco, California) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 1, 2023 |
| Main results expected | January 2026 |
| Study ends | April 2026 |
| Registry record updated | December 11, 2024 |
| Trial ID | NCT05816226 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are individuals experiencing TMJ arthralgia for at least three days.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with systemic pain conditions or those currently taking steroids may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of a topical 2.5% hydrocortisone cream in treating TMJ arthralgia compared to a 1% diclofenac cream. Participants will apply the cream four times daily for 21 days and report their pain levels and jaw function limitations at the start and end of the study. The trial aims to assess pain reduction, improvement in jaw function, and any side effects associated with each treatment. Data will be collected and analyzed to determine which treatment is more effective.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could provide a non-invasive option for patients suffering from TMJ pain.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using topical treatments for pain management, but this specific approach is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Arthralgia of at least 1 TMJ for at least 3 days Exclusion Criteria: * Systemic pain condition * Past adverse reaction to steroid * Currently taking steroid * Taken steroid in the past \_\_\_ months * Muscle relaxants (may start after study is complete) * New night guard during study, or within 1 month of start of study (may start after study is complete)
Where it's running
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Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, University of the Pacific
San Francisco, California, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Andrew Young, DDS, MSD
- Email: ayoung@pacific.edu
- Phone: 4153517126
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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AI-assisted approach to diagnose and treat temporomandibular disorders
This study tests a machine-learning approach that uses clinical data, CBCT, and MRI to guide personalized treatment for people with temporomandibular disorders.
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Biologic augmentation of TMJ arthroscopy with bone marrow concentrate
This trial tests whether injecting bone marrow aspirate concentrate during TMJ arthroscopy helps reduce pain and joint damage more than standard corticosteroid injections in adults with TMJ pain not responding to conservative care.
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Using paintings to help people describe and manage jaw (TMJ) pain
This randomized trial will test whether adding an art-based tool to standard care helps adults with Wilkes stage I–II TMD better describe their pain, improve jaw function, and reduce anxiety.
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Nerve block injections for chronic jaw (TMJ) pain
Doctors will try nerve block injections to see if they reduce long-term jaw pain in adults with chronic TMJ who haven't improved after at least two other treatments.
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.