The Temporomandibular joint is the joint that connects the jaw, or mandible, to the skull. This joint, along with the coordinated effort of several muscles, allows the mandible to move up and down, from side to side, and forward and back. When these joints are properly aligned and move synchronously, speaking, chewing, yawning, and swallowing is possible.
Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD) is a condition in which the muscles around the jaw, face, and neck, as well as the jaw itself become painful. Often, limited movement and joint noise accompany the pain, and tasks such as speaking, chewing, yawning, and swallowing are dysfunctional and painful. Common signs/symptoms of TMD include; jaw pain, headaches, pain in the eyes, neck, shoulder, and upper back, ear pain/ringing in the ears, dizziness, clicking/popping of the jaw, locking of the jaw, pain and sensitivity of the teeth (in the absence of oral pathology), numbness/tingling in and around the face and jaw.
The cause of TMD is typically related to a combination of factors, including degenerative joint disease, bruxism (clenching), poor posture habits, trauma to the jaw/head/neck, myofascial pain syndrome, malalignment of teeth, and joint derangement (displaced disc). Several of our physical therapists have taken advanced training in management of this complex condition, and can work with you to restore normal, pain free movement of your jaw. Manual techniques are often utilized to gently increase movement by mobilizing the joint, stretching the soft tissue, and strengthening the muscles around the jaw to improve overall endurance and prevent “clenching.”
For more information on Temporomandibular Treatment, or to schedule an appointment, please contact one of the Paragon PT clinics listed below.
