Abstract
[Purpose] To determine which of the transcranial electromagnetic stimulation or low
level laser therapy is more effective in the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia of multiple
sclerosis patients. [Methods] Thirty multiple sclerosis patients of both sexes
participated in this study. The age of the subjects ranged from 40 to 60 years and their
mean age was (56.4–6.6). Participants were randomly selected from Dental and Neurology
Outpatient Clinics at King Khalid Hospital, Najran University, Saudi Arabia. Patients were
randomly divided into two equal groups of 15. The Laser group received a low level laser
therapy, 830 nm wavelength, 10 Hz and 15 min duration, while the Electromagnetic group
received repetitive transcranial electromagnetic stimulation at a frequency of 10 Hz,
intensity of 50 mA and duration of 20 minutes. Patients were assessed pre and post
treatment for degree of pain using a numerical rating scale, maximal oral mouth opening
using a digital calibrated caliper, masseter muscle tension using a tensiometer and a
compound action potentials of masseter and temporalis muscles. [Results] There were
significant improvements after treatment in both groups, with a significant difference
between the Electromagnetic and Laser groups, in favor of the Electromagnetic group.
[Conclusion] Repetitive transcranial electromagnetic stimulation at 10 Hz, 50 mA, and 20
minutes duration is more effective than low level laser therapy at reducing trigeminal
pain, increasing maximum oral mouth opening, masseter and temporalis muscle tension in
multiple sclerosis patients.