TMJ Dysfunction
Finding Relief For Your TMJ Dysfunction With Physical Therapy
Your jaw is connected to your skull by the temporomandibular joint. TMJ dysfunction can develop if there is an injury to this joint or it is damaged in some way. Temporomandibular joint dysfunction, also known as TMJ dysfunction, is a condition that causes the jaw joint and its associated muscles to become painful and stiff. The temporomandibular joint is a complex and significant structure made up of bones, tendons, and muscles that can make you experience discomfort on one or both sides of your jaw. This can make opening your mouth, talking, yawning, and chewing very difficult.
You may have TMJ dysfunction if you have trouble chewing or yawning, have jaw pain, or hear a clicking noise as you open and close your mouth. Schedule an appointment with Pace Physical Therapy to find relief for your TMJ disorder.
How can I tell if I have TMJ Dysfunction?
There is no single tool or sure way is available in diagnosing TMJ dysfunction. A medical professional will examine your medical history and conduct a physical test if you think you might be suffering from this disorder. You can also be referred by your physician to an otolaryngologist or dentist specializing in jaw disorders.
Until diagnosing the patient with TMJ dysfunction, the idea is to rule out any medical conditions, as the symptoms can also be related to a condition known as trigeminal neuralgia, salivary gland disease, or even swollen lymph nodes. You will be treated based on the severity of your symptoms until your condition has been decided.
Symptoms of this TMJ disorder include jaw pain, popping of the jaw, headaches, sore muscles of the jaw, locked jaw, temple pain, and earaches. There are several reasons why TMJ dysfunction can develop, but misalignment of the teeth, gum chewing, arthritis, teeth grinding, or injury to the jaw are some common causes.
How will physical therapy help with my TMJ Dysfunction?
Home remedies can be used in some cases to treat TMJ dysfunction. Some individuals use Ibuprofen or Aspirin and respond well to over-the-counter pain relievers. Applying ice packs to the jaw joint directly can also help alleviate pain. Through sedative essential oils, such as clary sage or lavender, you can also find temporary relief. Medical intervention may be required when home remedies do not function to provide long-term relief. To relieve pain, stronger muscle relaxers or anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed. In order to preserve correctly aligned teeth and avoid tooth grinding, a jaw specialist can also use a dental splint. Trigger-point acupuncture, joint replacement, or TMJ arthroscopy are some forms of medical care.
However, physical therapy is probably one of the most common interventions for TMJ disorder if you choose to stop taking pain-relieving drugs and use a more holistic method. A thorough examination will be performed on your neck, shoulder girdle, and thoracic spine at your initial consultation with Pace Physical Therapy to decide whether those structures are triggering your symptoms. One of our dedicated physical therapists from San Jose, CA, will then develop a care plan based on the extent of your symptoms and your particular needs.
In the areas around your neck and head, our physical therapist can assess your jaw mobility and relieve muscle tension. The aim of physical therapy is to restore the normal function of the jaw muscles and joints and the contact between them. Any combination of strategies and modalities can be part of your treatment plan, including jaw exercises, soft tissue massage, joint mobilization, myofascial techniques, electrical stimulation, or ultrasound.
Contact Pace Physical Therapy for relief:
Our physical therapists are patient-centric and committed to your health, working hard to help you manage and eliminate symptoms. If you are in San Jose, CA suffering from the symptoms of TMJ dysfunction, request an appointment at Pace Physical Therapy. Don’t suffer from jaw pain and stiffness any longer.
