TMJ Disorders and How a Physiotherapist Can Help
TMJ disorders can be painful and limiting, but help is available for those experiencing this difficult condition via a licensed physiotherapist.
What Is A TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is located below the temple and in front of the inner ear, and problems with this joint or the muscles associated with it can cause difficulty using the jaw. This affects talking, eating, drinking, chewing and yawning. Usually people realize there is a problem when they experience pain in their jaw during everyday activities, but other symptoms include: ear pain, facial pain, facial spams, tight or tender jaw muscles, jaw popping, headaches or neck aches, ringing in the ears, or difficulty opening or closing the mouth.
What Causes A TMJ Disorder?
“TMJ disorder” is a general name for a group of conditions relating to these muscles and joints. Research suggests that the major causes of a dysfunction in the TMJ are:
- Arthritis
- Inflammatory joint conditions
- Joint or disc displacement or dislocation
- Jaw injuries
- Fractures
- More generalized myofascial pain conditions
- Environmental factors such as:
- Poor posture
- Clenching of the jaw
- Grinding of the teeth
- Inability to relax
- Poor diet
Anyone can experience a TMJ disorder, with the young just as susceptible as the elderly, although women are more prone than men.
How a Physiotherapist Can Help
For those experiencing a TMJ disorder related to a fracture, injury or dislocation, the underlying cause must first be addressed before rehabilitation can be begun. However, the vast majority of sufferers have no obvious underlying cause for their discomfort, with many finding that symptoms begin out of nowhere. Physiotherapy has been shown to be an effective, non-invasive and safe treatment route for TMJ disorders, regardless of the cause.
A physiotherapist will assist with and teach a variety of techniques designed to alleviate symptoms, including: postural correction, stretching exercises for the jaw, head and neck, strengthening exercises, manual mobilizations of the affected joints, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and relaxation exercises. Your physiotherapist will assess your specific condition and create a tailored program to treat your symptoms and to resolve exacerbating factors.
Questions about TMJ disorders? Schedule an appointment with our team of physiotherapists.
Physio Proactive, 2018.