Initial treatment for myalgia is stretching.

Initial treatment for myalgia is stretching.

• A. Splint
• B. NSAIDs
• C. Stretching
• D. Massage

Answer: (C)

Muscle-related TMD pain responds best to interventions that restore normal muscle length and reduce overactivity. Gentle jaw stretching directly lengthens tight jaw muscles, improves range of motion, and helps release trigger points, which often reduces pain and improves function—making it the most appropriate starting approach for myalgia. A splint can help by reducing clenching and protecting joints, but it doesn’t actively lengthen muscle fibers. NSAIDs may ease pain but don’t correct the underlying muscle tightness, and massage aids tension relief but works best as part of a broader program that includes stretching. Starting with a stretching routine addresses the primary muscular dysfunction and sets the stage for other therapies if needed.

Muscle-related TMD pain responds best to interventions that restore normal muscle length and reduce overactivity. Gentle jaw stretching directly lengthens tight jaw muscles, improves range of motion, and helps release trigger points, which often reduces pain and improves function—making it the most appropriate starting approach for myalgia.

A splint can help by reducing clenching and protecting joints, but it doesn’t actively lengthen muscle fibers. NSAIDs may ease pain but don’t correct the underlying muscle tightness, and massage aids tension relief but works best as part of a broader program that includes stretching. Starting with a stretching routine addresses the primary muscular dysfunction and sets the stage for other therapies if needed.