Symptoms
Ear pain (non-otologic)
Deep ear pain without otologic findings is frequently myofascial in origin, particularly from masseter, medial pterygoid and SCM.
Overview
Deep ear pain without otologic findings is frequently myofascial in origin, particularly from masseter, medial pterygoid and SCM. Identifying which muscle reproduces the patient's familiar pain on palpation guides treatment and often produces meaningful change alongside standard care.
Clinical notes
Rule out otitis with ENT exam. Reproducible referral on palpation supports myofascial component.
Red flags — when to refer
Discharge, hearing loss, fever — refer to ENT.
Muscles often involved
References
- • Travell & Simons — Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction