Rationale: In 2016, Henssen et al. discuss that orofacial pain may be conducted in a bilateral fashion, inducing activation of both thalami \[1\]. For this reason, bilateral stimulation of the motor cortex is thought to induce a stronger analgesic effect compared to unilateral motor cortex stimulation by transcranial magnetic stimulation. Objective: To investigate the superiority of bilateral transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) over unilateral TMS of the motor cortex Study design: Double-blind, randomized controlled trial Study population: Patients that suffer from chronic orofacial pain and have not been treated (yet) with any form of neuromodulation. Intervention (if applicable): One group receives bilateral TMS whereas the other group receives unilateral TMS for one month. After one month, the groups switch treatment protocol. Main study parameters/endpoints: Modification in intensity of pain as measured using the VAS, the influence the relief of pain with regard to quality of life and daily activities using the McGill Pain Questionnaire. Nature and extent of the burden and risks associated with participation, benefit and group relatedness: Time investment of patients.
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Pain intensity
Timeframe: 8 weeks