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Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is the jaw joint.
Problems in this joint can be
painful and very debilitating.
Often, patients will complain of
pain on one side of the jaw or face. They may have stiffness or be unable to fully open the mouth.
Their jaw joint may pop or crack.
Neck pain, headache, and earache
is a common symptom with TMJ disorders.
Evaluation of TMJ Dysfunction begins with an
evaluation by the therapist of the
postures of the head and neck. Improper postures predispose patients to abnormal movement of
the TMJ.
Improper cervical postures can
stress the muscles of the jaw.
The muscles used in chewing, and
the jaw joint itself, may become tight,
inflamed and weak, and/or hypertrophied.
TMJ problems may result from
displacement of the cartilage disc in
the joint, degenerative changes, and/or
acute inflammation of the joint.
Emotional factors such as stress can
also play an important role.
Treatment procedures include exercise, ultrasound,
stretching techniques, manual therapy,
and soft tissue mobilization. Thorough
physical therapy evaluation and proper
treatment are imperative for the
alleviation of these patient problems.
Education regarding proper head postures
and positions that aggravate TMJ
dysfunction, along with a home exercise
program, are essential to obtain lasting
results.
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