What are common findings in myofascial TMD regarding muscle involvement?

• A. Tenderness of the masseter and temporalis muscles.
• B. Paresthesia of the tongue.
• C. Inflammation of the TMJ capsule.
• D. Degenerative joint changes.

Answer: (C)

In myofascial TMD, the problem is muscular rather than joint-based, with pain arising from trigger points and tenderness in the muscles of mastication. The most typical and informative finding is tenderness upon palpation of the masseter and temporalis muscles, often with taut bands and referral of pain to the jaw or temple areas during chewing or jaw movement. This muscular focus helps distinguish myofascial TMD from conditions that involve the joint itself.

Inflammation of the TMJ capsule points to an intra-articular issue such as capsulitis or synovitis, not the muscle-driven pain characteristic of myofascial TMD. Paresthesia of the tongue suggests a neural or nerve-related process rather than muscle pain, and degenerative joint changes describe structural joint disease rather than primary muscle involvement. So the muscle tenderness in the masseter and temporalis best represents the muscle involvement seen in myofascial TMD.