#tmj physio

TMJ or the Temporomandibular Joints refers to the joints of the jaw, which are used frequently during eating, talking and yawning. These joints are present at either side of the jaw and are responsible for connecting the jaw to the skull. TMJ dysfunction or TMD (temporomandibular disorders) describes pain encountered within this region, either in the joints themselves or muscles responsible for controlling movement. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, a TMJ physio will be able to diagnose and treat your condition accordingly. 

Symptoms 

Symptoms of TMJ dysfunction vary and can occur from both direct and indirect sources. Common symptoms include (but are not limited to):

-       Pain in the jaw

-       Clicking or popping of the jaw

-       Difficulty when chewing

-       Grinding of the teeth

-       Limited jaw opening

-       Inability to clench jaw

-       Headaches or tension in the facial region

-       A blocked or ringing sensation of the ear 

If you are experiencing any of the above-listed symptoms, it would be wise to seek advice from an experienced physio for TMJ pain and commence an appropriate treatment plan. 

Causes 

More often than not, the cause of TMJ dysfunction is identifiable. The joints of the jaw move both by hinging and sliding, so interruptions to such can cause the above-mentioned symptoms. Such interruptions include but are not limited to:

-       Disc derangement or displacement

-       Misalignment of the discs or joints

-       Arthritis

-       Trauma

-       Nocturnal grinding of teeth 

Diagnosis 

Before commencing an appropriate treatment plan, your TMJ physio will undertake a range of tests as part of an initial assessment including measuring the range of motion of your jaw, the coordination of your jaw joints, assessing muscle length and identifying any abnormality in movement pattern including clicking, locking or grinding. 

Treatment 

When approaching TMJ treatment, Perth-based physiotherapists will prescribe a clear explanation of your condition and an appropriate program for your situation.

TMJ Perth physiotherapist will prescribe according to your unique condition and symptoms experienced. Treatment options include various manual treatment techniques including joint mobilisation, massage and dry needling. Your physio for TMJ pain may also prescribe you exercises and jaw stretches to increase the range of motion and train the muscles of the jaw. 

Around 16% of people suffer from jaw pain requiring treatment and may not know if they should seek treatment from a doctor, dentist or physiotherapist. However, a handful of physiotherapists are qualified and highly experienced in the treatment of jaw pain, and can work alongside a dentist with the treatment of temporomandibular joint dysfunctions and disorders. 

The Temporomandibular Joints (TMJ), your jaw joints, are the most used joints in your body. Located on each side of a person’s face the TMJ’s are responsible for actions related to talking, chewing, yawning, smiling and laughing. When these joints or the associated soft tissue structures are not working correctly the range of conditions that can occur are known as Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD). 

What is a Temporomandibular Disorder?

TMD can be the result of a one-off injury such as a sports injury or a blow to the jaw. It can also occur due to repetitive motions causing wear and tear to the joint. TMD can also be the result of malalignment of the teeth, grinding and clenching of the jaw. This can cause the muscles around the jaw to be overworked resulting in muscle pain (myalgia) and can contribute to joint derangement. 

What are the Symptoms of Temporomandibular Disorder?

Some of the symptoms of TMD may include:

●        Popping, clicking and grating noises when chewing

●        Pain around the ear, cheek or temple

●        Muscles spasms around the jaw

●        Jaw tightness or limited movement

●        Earaches

●        Pain in the sinuses

●        Headaches 

 What Causes Temporomandibular Disorder?

There are many causes of TMD such as clenching and teeth grinding, or a jaw injury. Arthritic conditions are also a cause TMD, as well as dental problems such as an underbite or overbite. Some other factors that may contribute to TMD include stress, poor posture, trauma, wisdom teeth removal and neuropsychological factors. It may seem strange that poor posture could have an effect on the jaw. However, when sitting hunched over or in a slouched position it changes the bite pattern which can result in tension in the jaw.

Problems with the temporomandibular joint can be diagnosed by a qualified physiotherapist or dental practitioner. It may be include an X-ray, MRI or CT scan for further investigation. Your Physiotherapist experienced in TMD will have an additional skill set in a hands on assessment of the muscle and joint dysfunction of your TMD. 

TMJ physio includes a thorough assessment, examining the range of motion of the jaw, coordination and any excessive muscle tension. After the initial assessment your physio will provide a treatment plan to begin correcting the issues. Once diagnosed TMJ physio Perth can provide techniques to aid in the treatment and correction of the jaw joint. Some of the TMJ physiotherapy techniques and treatments available include:

●        Massage to relieve tension

●        Joint mobilisation

●        Exercises to correct jaw movement

●        Posture improvement

●        Treatment of the surrounding areas such as the neck

●        Strengthening and stretching exercises

●        Dry needling 

If the pain is related to stress, jaw clenching or teeth grinding, successful treatment can be completed in conjunction with a dentist. A night guard may be necessary to prevent damage to the teeth. In many cases with treatment however, the urge to clench reduces improving the comfort experienced in the morning.