Filling in the Gaps. Making Sense of Living with Temporomandibular Disorders: A Reflexive Thematic Analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Persistent, painful temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are challenging to manage and usually require the active engagement of patients. To achieve this, it is necessary to understand the complex and multifactorial nature of persistent pain. Many dental professionals have little education about persistent pain and may prefer to offer structural management and advice. This research aims to explore how people understand their persistent TMD and how this understanding has been influenced by their treatment providers.

Methods

Twenty-one people were recruited to represent a diversity of experience with persistent TMD. Interviews followed a semistructured topic guide. Themes were constructed through reflexive thematic analysis to represent how people made sense of thei

SUBMITTER: Penlington C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11408972 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature