TMJ

Jaw joint dysfuction

We can help with TMJ Issues (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder)

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction can cause significant discomfort and impact daily life. That’s why our team at Altea Physiotherapy + Wellness is dedicated to providing effective TMD (temporomandibular disorder) treatment to help manage these symptoms. The temporomandibular joint is often the unnrecognized cause of headaches, facial pain or earaches. Painful clicking, reduced range of motion, or uneven movement are signs of a problem in your TMJ.

TMJ dysfunction can result from injury to the joint, misalignment of the jaw, poor head and neck posture, arthritis, and stress which can cause clenching or grinding of the teeth. Grinding and clenching puts a lot of force on the joint and causes tight muscles in the jaw.

The goal for treatment of TMJ dysfunction is to reduce pain and restore normal movement. We understand that every patient’s experience with temporomandibular joint disorders is unique, which is why we use a personalized approach to develop treatment plans tailored to each individual. Our physiotherapists are skilled in manual therapy, exercise prescription, and education to help reduce pain and improve function. Our goal is to help our patients achieve optimal jaw function and reduce/remove those strange symptoms.

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What To Expect During A TMJ Treatment Session

An assessment is required prior to starting TMJ treatment sessions to establish history, dysfunction, and goals. Our physiotherapist will take a detailed history and perform a physical examination to assess your jaw function, posture, and mobility. Treatment may include manual therapy techniques, exercises, muscles release techniques, joint mobilizations, acupuncture, certain modalities, postural/lifestyle modifications, and stress reduction education. Our physiotherapist will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan to help improve jaw function and reduce pain.

FAQ

Frequently Asked TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder) Questions

Q: What is TMJ?

A: TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. It is the joint that connects your jaw to your skull and allows you to open and close your mouth.

Q: What are some common symptoms of TMJ dysfunction?

A: Common symptoms of TMJ dysfunction include jaw pain, clicking or popping in the jaw, headaches, earaches, and difficulty chewing or speaking.

Q: What causes TMJ dysfunction?

A: TMJ dysfunction can be caused by a variety of factors including jaw injury, teeth grinding or clenching, stress, arthritis, or a misaligned bite.

Q: Can TMJ dysfunction be treated without surgery?

A: Yes, in most cases TMJ dysfunction can be treated without surgery. Physiotherapy, including manual therapy techniques and exercises, can help improve jaw function and reduce pain.

Q: How long does it take to recover from TMJ dysfunction?

A: Recovery time for TMJ dysfunction varies depending on the severity of the condition and the individual. With proper treatment and adherence to a personalized treatment plan, most patients see improvement within a few weeks to a few months.

Q: Can stress cause TMJ dysfunction?

A: Yes, stress is a common cause of TMJ dysfunction. Stress can lead to teeth grinding or clenching, which can cause strain on the TMJ.

Q: Can TMJ dysfunction cause ear pain?

A: Yes, TMJ dysfunction can cause ear pain or discomfort as the joint is located in close proximity to the ear.

Q: Can I prevent TMJ dysfunction?

A: While it is not always possible to prevent TMJ dysfunction, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk, including practicing good posture, avoiding chewing gum or hard foods, and managing stress levels.