Topical treatment for jaw pain

Comparison of Topical 1% Diclofenac and Topical 2.5% Hydrocortisone for TMJ Arthralgia

Phase 3 Interventional University of the Pacific · NCT05816226

This study is testing if a stronger hydrocortisone cream can help people with jaw pain feel better compared to a different cream.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 3
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment90 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of the Pacific Academic / other
Locations1 site (San Francisco, California)
Trial IDNCT05816226 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals experiencing TMJ arthralgia for at least three days.

Not a fit: Patients with systemic pain conditions or those currently taking steroids may not benefit from this study.

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 performed: Other studies have shown promise in using topical treatments for pain management, but this specific approach is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

San Francisco, California

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions TMJ PaindiclofenachydrocortisoneTMJarthralgia
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.