The Impact of Chronic Temporomandibular Disorders on Fatigue and Daily Life: A Qualitative Phenomenological Study.

Introduction: Chronic temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) affect a notable portion of the population, with a prevalence of 5% to 12%. These conditions often lead individuals to adopt a soft-food diet to manage pain, but such dietary adjustments can inadvertently cause nutritional deficiencies. This issue may be compounded by medications used to manage TMD symptoms, which can contribute to fatigue and reduced daily functioning. In addition, TMD encompasses not only pain but also functional disorders, such as joint locking, which can further affect the individual's quality of life.

Aim: This study aimed to delve into the lived experiences of individuals with chronic TMDs, focusing specifically on how their condition affected their daily activities including dietary habits and interactions within social settings.

Materials and methods: This study used interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) with semi-structured interviews with participants referred from specialists in Montreal, Canada, who were diagnosed with TMDs for at least 6 mo. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed to uncover the nuanced challenges faced by individuals living with TMDs.

Results: Six participants were interviewed. The thematic analysis identified 4 main themes: (1) limited functioning and energy levels highlighting fatigue and frustration by TMDs; (2) communication challenges due to pain, affecting professional roles and social interactions; (3) impact on social and professional life necessitating adjustments and accommodations; and (4) seeking medical assistance such as medications and physiotherapy, reflecting proactive approaches to managing TMDs' symptoms.

Discussion: The findings demonstrated the wide effects and complex needs of individuals enduring chronic TMD. These effects attributed to TMD medications causing fatigue and impairing daily activity levels suggest a need for comprehensive care approaches that address both physical and psychological dimensions.

Conclusion: The multifaceted effects of chronic TMDs on individuals' lives highlighted the necessity for integrated health care approaches that address diverse aspects of well-being. By incorporating patient perspectives and experiences into clinical practice, health care providers can enhance treatment outcomes and quality of life for TMDs' patients.

Knowledge transfer statement: This study highlighted the daily challenges faced by individuals with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), emphasizing the importance of tailored interventions to improve their quality of life. These insights can inform health care providers in developing holistic approaches to address the multifaceted needs of TMD patients, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes.