What are the Signs and Symptoms of TMJ and Treatment Options?
Before we dive into the signs symptoms of TMJ, firstly you might ask what is the TMJ? TMJ is the tempero-mandibular joint which is the joint that connects your mandible to your skull. Does your jaw click when you yawn? Does your jaw ache when eating or after a nights sleep? Do you get headaches associated with your jaw pain? These are a few examples of common lines given to me daily in my physiotherapy practice from my TMJ clients. From my experience the signs and symptoms of TMJ are varied and many. In my practice I see at least two TMJ problems a day and rarely are any two presentations the same. So what does TMJ disorder actually mean? TMJ disorders cover an umbrella of chronic and acute painful presentations of the TMJ. People coming to me with problems around their jaw present with varying degrees of pain and impairment to movement and function. The most common problems I see relating to the TMJ are: • Arthritis. • Trauma. • Dislocations. • Developmental anomalies. What structures
In our approach to understanding TMJ pain, let’s start with the basics: TMJ is a shortened word used for describing the tempero-mandibular joint, which is the joint that connects your mandible to your skull. It is a complex joint involving bones, ligaments, capsules and muscles. Its movement and function is influenced by the neck and facial alignment as well as the teeth. While you are probably already too familiar with the symptoms of TMJ, TMJ treatment options are many but, most importantly, are really effective ONCE EARLY INTERVENTION is sought. Approaches such as muscle release and joint mobilisations are the ones I use most frequently with my own clients. Signs Symptoms of TMJ. Symptoms of TMJ disorder are many and varied and include pain and stiffness around the jaw. Headaches and dizziness can arise and biting anomalies and grinding of teeth are commonly seen in my patients. Read more about Signs Symptoms of TMJ. TMJ Treatment Options. Treating TMJ disorders are, again, many and
