Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare lidocaine and methyl salicylate patches for the treatment of myofascial pain.
Materials and methods: Thirty patients with myofascial pain in their head and neck muscles were randomly divided into three groups. Group one (10 patients) was treated with methyl salicylate patches. Group two (10 patients) was treated with lidocaine patches. Group three (10 patients) served as the control group and received plain patches with no active ingredients. Each patient received one patch, which was replaced by the patient every 12 hours. The patients were instructed to remove the last patch 12 hours before their visit on day five. All evaluations (pain intensity, degree of mouth opening, range of motion, and disability) were repeated on day five (12 hours after removal of the last patch) and day nine (after four days of follow-up).
Results: A significant reduction in pain intensity, a significant increase in mouth opening and lateral movement and significant improvement in quality of life were observed after treatment with methyl salicylate and lidocaine patches.
Conclusions: Methyl salicylate and lidocaine patches are effective for the treatment of myofascial pain.