BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Different stimulations are needed to evaluate the integrity of afferent fibers and to better understand the mechanisms involved in different pain conditions which may affect the orofacial region. This study aimed primarily at reviewing the literature to provide guidelines to the clinical practice. CONTENTS: PubMed database was searched from 1990 to 2011 using MeSH terms. Mechanical stimulation could be done with Von-Frey monofilaments to test A-beta and A-delta fibers. Pinprick test is a simple way to evaluate A-delta and C fibers. Pressure pain threshold (PPT) tests A-delta and C fibers. Among thermal test modalities one may use ice cubes or a freezing spray to measure the level of central sensitization involved. Electric stimulations applied by the Neurometer/Neurotron® device evaluated three major fibers (A-delta, A-beta and C), hyperesthesia and hypoesthesia. In addition, C fibers can also be evaluated by chemical stimulations with capsain and/or menthol. CONCLUSION: Quantitative sensory tests are a reliable way to evaluate nervous fibers sensory function. Sensory deficit may be quantified and data may be used as diagnostic aid or to compare the effectiveness of different treatment modalities.
Headache; Miofascial pain syndromes; Pain perception; Pain threshold; Thermal sensitivity
