To describe the concept of counseling (i.e. what is it, what should it consist of, and when should it be given) through a concept analysis of the literature.
All papers that include a description of counseling or education for TMD are included. Literature searches were performed in the electronic databases PubMed, Cinahl, and PsycInfo. A qualitative analysis was done using the principle-based concept analysis approach, where descriptions of counseling from the included papers were analyzed by the researchers.
A total of 71 articles were included. Based on the qualitative analysis of the included articles and descriptions of counseling, the following content themes were identified: 1) general information on TMD; 2) overuse of the masticatory system; 3) posture education; 4) lifestyle and psychosocial factors; 5) exercise- and thermotherapy; and 6) additional information and therapies.
A definition and framework of counseling for TMD has been provided, which can be used in the clinic, research, and educational programs.
Clinical implications
This review gives members of an inter-disciplinary treatment team(including phsyiotherapy) for patients with TMD the opportunity to provide the same level of counseling amongst each other. In all learning, including patient education, repetition of the same information makes people remember the information better.
Implications for education
The need for proper education for healthcare providers who want to be specialized in TMD, and a proposed core curriculum, is described by the American Academy for Orofacial Pain. Even though this curriculum is aimed at dentists, physiotherapists also play an important role in TMD-management, and therefore education should be interdisciplinary. The outcome of the current review can be incorporated in curricula all over the world.
Implication for research
The definition adn framework could help to research important topics. Firstly, specific consequences of counseling should be tested on multiple levels: for example experience of patients and increase of self-management. Secondly, the mode or form of counseling needs to be further studied. Which is most effective, and does the mode of delivery have an impact on the therapeutic-patient relationship? Thirdly, as TMD is often managed interdisciplinary, does it matter who provided the counseling, or should every team member provide (part of) the counseling?
counseling
review and concept analysis
