TMJ/TMD
Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction
What is it?
TMD, TMJ or Temporomandibular Joint dysfunction are all terms referring to pain originating or associated with the two hinged jaw joints connecting the lower jaw to the area just below the ear. There are many structures within and around the joint area that can be associated with creating this pain. These can be bite or occlusal problems, internal joint problems, derangement or muscle spasm or inflammation.
Signs and Symptoms
- Facial pain, jaw joint pain often in combination with neck, shoulder and back pain.
- Popping or grating or clicking sounds with normal motion of the jaw.
- Pain in the jaw joint under the ear with opening and/or closing the mouth, or with yawning or chewing.
- Limited opening or inability to open mouth comfortably.
- Deviation of the jaw to one side, especially when opening the mouth.
Treatment
Physical Therapy can treat local inflammation and muscle spasms. A Physical Therapist can design programs to restore jaw range of motion and muscle control. Postural evaluation and treatment may be indicated to improve head and neck position. We can design specific individualized home programs to help you maintain your progress independently.
Intervention
Physical Therapists have a wide range of treatment options to control pain. These include deep and superficial heat, manual therapy to stretch & reposition postural/muscle asymmetries, ultrasound, massage, electrical stimulation, and iontophoresis. These treatments effectively treat local inflammation and pain. We also have therapists specially trained in the treatment of edema or swelling.