Tempromandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction

 

TMJ Dysfunction (TMD) is also sometimes called "TMJD", "TMJ Syndrome" or just "TMJ". This condition is often a poorly defined joint and muscle problem in which many symptoms can affect the jaw joints. Some symptoms of TMJ disorder may include jaw joint pain or joint noise (crepitis) upon jaw joint opening or closing of the mouth, joint locking, arthritis, joint fusion (ankylosis), developmental abnormalities, facial pain or headaches or malocclusion. TMJ problems usually have a cervical component, that is, the neck (cervical) or shoulder joints and muscles are often involved. Patients with TMD frequently have a history of cervical trauma or injury, such as may occur in an auto accident. Upon closer examination, these patients also report a history of headaches, migraines, neck pain, shoulder pain and/or upper back pain. TMD is NOT just a dental problem and it is NOT just a jaw joint problem. In order to effectively treat TMD, a qualified Orofacial dental specialist and a physical therapist should evaluate the patient. It is important to have a multidisciplinary approach in order to treat the underlying problems associated with TMD. 

 

Symptoms of TMJ Dysfunction:There are many symptoms of TMJ dysfunction. Everyone is different and so the disorder can manifest itself in a variety of ways. The following are symptoms a patient with TMJ dysfunction might experience:

 

• Eye Pain and Eye Problems

• Head Pain, Headache Problems, Facial Pain

• Teeth and Gum Problems

• Mouth, Face, Cheek, and Chin Problems

• Ear Pain, Ear Problems

• Throat Problems

• Neck and Shoulder Problems

 

Treatment should be coordinated with a dentist or Orofacial pain specialist in order to achieve optimal results. Physical therapy treatment will include hands-on treatment and specific, individualized therapeutic exercises to improve and normalize jaw joint function and balance in chewing muscles (muscles of mastication). Evaluation and treatment will also be directed at the neck and shoulder complex to determine and resolve its contribution to the jaw joint problem. Biofeedback may also be useful to help identify and retrain muscle imbalances and weaknesses.