TMJ Syndrome (also known as TMD – Temporomandibular Dysfunction) is the condition in which pain and/or inflammation is present at the Temporomandibular Joint. This is the joint where your jaw meets your skull, and is one of the most frequently used joints in the body. It is in use when talking, yawning, biting and chewing. This inflammation causes significant pain and can also trigger other forms of impairment, including jaw locking. An estimated 10 million Americans are dealing with TMJ dysfunction.
Here at Oklahoma Physical Therapy, we have proven techniques that can be combined to help combat the effects of TMJ dysfunction. Our approach to TMJ physical therapy can stop the pain you are feeling and reverse the condition with time.
Causes of TMJ Syndrome
Some of the common causes of Temporomandibular Joint syndrome include:
- Concussion
- Trauma to the jaw or the head region in general
- Poor posture
- Stress
- Arthritis
- Excessive gum chewing
- Incorrect alignment of teeth in the jaw
Symptoms of TMJ Syndrome
Some of the common symptoms of TMJ syndrome include:
- Pain in the jaw joint
- Jaw clicking
- Jaw locking
- Stiff or sore jaw muscles
- Headaches
How Physical Therapy can Help
The goal of physical therapy in TMJ is to correct upper cervical spine deficits and reverse the inflammation. The physical therapy program may include any of the following treatment options:
- Soft-tissue mobilization (including Dry Needling)
- Upper Cervical spine mobilization/manipulation
- Posture correction
- Anti-inflammatory heat or cold compression
- Strengthening exercises targeted at the affected area
Here at Oklahoma Physical Therapy, we take the time to run a holistic diagnosis before creating a personalized treatment plan for you. To get started with your TMJ physical therapy, get in touch with us today.