Brain scans may unlock secrets of chronic jaw pain

NCT ID NCT05068908

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Minnesota Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jul 10, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looks at how brain circuits are connected in people with chronic temporomandibular joint (TMD) pain compared to pain-free individuals. Researchers will use MRI scans to map brain activity and structure in 95 female participants. The goal is to find patterns that could help explain chronic pain and improve how it is diagnosed and treated.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to: If successful, this could help identify brain-based markers for chronic pain, leading to better diagnosis and personalized treatments for TMD and other pain conditions.
What could go wrong: This is an observational study, not a treatment trial. It is small (95 participants) and early-stage, so findings may not apply broadly or lead directly to new therapies.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Chronic Pain chronic pain syndrome temporomandibular joint disorder temporomandibular joint dysfunction syndrome

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CHRONIC PAIN TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT DISORDERS TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT PAIN

Contacts and locations

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Locations

University of Minnesota

Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55455, United States

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