Research Mentor: Dr. Tiffany Gierasch, Teaching Professor, UMBC Chemistry and Biochemistry
Mind & Muscle: Evaluation of Western Dentistry and Holistic Medicine for Myofascial Pain Care
Research Overview
My study compares the clinical approaches of Western dentistry, which traditionally focuses on physiological mechanics, with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and acupuncture, which inherently integrate a patient’s emotional well-being into their physical treatment. To gather a comprehensive range of perspectives, the research utilized a mixed-methods approach over a four-week period. This included surveying approximately 40 participants, comprising dental students, holistic medicine students, general dentists, and acupuncturists, to collect quantitative data, supplemented by in-depth interviews with two general dentists and two acupuncturists to capture professional clinical insights. Through the use of descriptive statistics to analyze these findings, the study highlights the differences and potential synergies between Eastern and Western methodologies. Ultimately, the research aims to pave the way for more integrative treatment models. By bridging the gap between these two medical approaches, healthcare providers can improve clinical outcomes and offer more holistic, effective relief for patients struggling with the complex realities of chronic myofascial pain.
Presentation Details
📍 Location: RAC Arena, Poster #93
📅 Date & Time: April 22nd, 2026, 2-3pm