Abstract
Chronic pain conditions constitute the primary reason for seeking healthcare, the development of related disability and addiction, and the highest driver of healthcare costs. Chronic temporomandibular, jaw and orofacial pain after acute jaw sprain/strain can be prevented if prompt and appropriate treatment in an emergency or urgent care clinic is provided using a jaw sprain/strain clinical protocol immediately after onset to begin the healing and recovery process. If pain does persist beyond a few weeks, a delayed-recovery protocol can be helpful. The rationale and strategies for both are discussed.
Keywords
Chronic pain, Acute jaw sprain, temporomandibular disorders, H.E.A.L.S. Protocol, R.I.C.E protocol, JAMSS protocol