Jaw Pain - Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJD)

CLICK HERE for EXERCISES TO HELP MANAGE JAW PAIN

What is TMJD?
Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction is the proper name for a malfunctioning or misaligned jaw joint found directly in front of a patient's ear. Patients who suffer from TMJD quite often experience headaches, ear, neck, and jaw pain, and restricted head, neck and jaw movements. It can also involve an abnormal bite, teeth and face pain, and difficulty chewing and swallowing.

How can a physical therapist assist in the treatment of TMJD?
Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction is the proper name for a malfunctioning or misaligned jaw joint found directly in front of a patient's ear. Patients who suffer from TMJD quite often experience headaches, ear, neck, and jaw pain, and restricted head, neck and jaw movements. It can also involve an abnormal bite, teeth and face pain, and difficulty chewing and swallowing.

How can a physical therapist assist in the treatment of TMJD?
Nose Creek Physical Therapists are keenly positioned to treat TMJD. In addition to screening patients for cervical spine dysfunction - a possible contributor to TMJD - all Nose Creek therapists have specialized, post-graduate training to address this dysfunction.

As a way to improve flexibility and release tension, they provide superior manual or massage therapy that can treat the spine and the TMJ. Nose Creek physiotherapists can also offer anatomical acupuncture and intramuscular stimulation, or dry-needling, which relieves pain and stiffness. Most extended health plans will cover the cost of this type of physical therapy.

Nose Creek Sport Physical Therapy will also work closely with referring dentists or physicians to fully address patient needs and concerns.

How can TMJD be managed?
Nose Creek Sport Physio Therapists will educate all patients on optimal posture and provide comprehensive range of motion, flexibility and strength exercises tailored to their specific condition. They will also make a series of behavioural recommendations that will help to prevent TMJD from returning.

Jaw Relaxation Exercises
The healthiest posture for the Jaw and the associated muscles is generally with the neck and shoulders in a relaxed position. Additionally the tongue should rest on the roof of the mouth and the teeth very gently touching. Relaxed breathing through the nose can help relax the jaw muscles. Physiotherapists recommend 15 minutes of relaxation to help to reduce jaw pain. Application of ice or heat for 15 minutes can also help you manage neck and jaw pain. Use Heat for dull aches and ice for sharp pains.