🚨 You may be experiencing temporomandibular disorder (TMD).
💥 Although many people may think the most likely health care provider to address symptoms of the mouth or jaw would be a dentist; there has however been an advancement in Physiotherapy as a front line approach for TMD.
📌 What is the Temporomandibular joint (TMJ)?
➡️ The TMJ is the joint between the lower jaw bone (mandible) and the temporal bone that is separated by a disc.
➡️ It is located beside the ear and is the most used joint in the body during daily function.
➡️ If you place your finger beside your ear and repetitively open and close your mouth you will be able to feel this joint.
📌 Types of TMD may include:
➡️ Displaced TMJ disc
➡️ Degenerative joint
➡️ Myofascial pain
📌What causes TMJ disorders?
➡️ Trauma to the jaw or TMJ
➡️ Muscle problems
➡️ Repetitive overuse
➡️ Degenerative changes in the joint
➡️ Chronic stress
➡️ Habitual behaviour eg clenching, grinding or bruxism.
➡️ Cervical spine involvement
📌 Symptoms?
➡️ Pain in the check or jaw
➡️ Limited mouth opening
➡️ Neck pain +/- headaches
➡️ Joint noises ( clicking, popping, or grating when opening/ closing mouth)
➡️ Pain with chewing or difficulty swallowing
➡️ Jaw muscle stiffness
📌Treatments?
✅ Research has shown that physiotherapy treatment is effective in relieving and managing TMD in the acute and chronic phases of the disorder.
➡️ Treatment may include:
✅ Soft tissue releases
✅ Joint mobilisation
✅ Postural correction and neck treatment
✅ Exercise program to improve coordination, stability and alignment of the jaw.
✅ Relaxation exercises
☎️ If you suspect you may be suffering from TMD DM, book online or call us on 9740 5454.
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