Recover FisioterapiaTMJ Dysfunction

TMJ Dysfunction Can Make Life Difficult 

Do you have trouble eating? Does yawning hurt? Are you experiencing jaw pain or discomfort that just won’t go away? Do you hear a clicking sound when you open or close your mouth? If so, you may have a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.

The TMJ connects your jaw to your skull. TMJ disorder is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the jaw joint and the muscles surrounding it. If the joint is damaged, TMJ dysfunction can occur.

 

Common Causes and Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

TMJ dysfunction can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common include dental misalignment, gum chewing, arthritis, teeth grinding (bruxism), and jaw injuries.

There is no single definitive test to diagnose TMJ dysfunction, but our physical therapists will review your medical history and perform appropriate assessments if they suspect you may be dealing with this condition.

Common symptoms of TMJ disorder include:

  • Headaches
  • Sore jaw muscles
  • Trismus (restricted jaw opening)
  • Pain in the temples
  • Ear pain
  • Jaw pain
  • Pain while eating or chewing
  • Jaw clicking or popping

Other medical conditions must be ruled out before diagnosing TMJ disorder, as similar symptoms may be related to trigeminal neuralgia, salivary gland disease, or even swollen lymph nodes. Your physician may also refer you to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist or a dentist who specializes in jaw disorders. Until a diagnosis is confirmed, treatment will be based on the severity of your symptoms.

 

What to Expect from Physical Therapy Treatment for TMJ

At your first appointment at Recover Fisioterapia & Rehabilitacion, a comprehensive evaluation of your neck, shoulders, and thoracic spine will be performed to determine whether these structures may be contributing to your symptoms.

Your physical therapist will assess jaw mobility and work to relieve muscle tension in the neck and head. Our physical therapy treatments are designed to help restore normal function, as well as proper coordination between the muscles and joints of the jaw.

Based on the complexity of your symptoms and your specific needs, one of our licensed physical therapists will create a personalized plan of care for you. Your recovery plan may include a variety of procedures and modalities, such as jaw exercises, soft tissue massage, joint mobilization, myofascial techniques, electrical stimulation, or ultrasound therapy.

 

Craniosacral Therapy and TMJ Relief

Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on form of manual therapy focused on evaluating and improving the body’s craniosacral system. This system consists of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. During CST, a physical therapist uses light pressure to help release deep tension and pain while regulating the flow of cerebrospinal fluid.

Craniosacral therapy can be used to treat a wide range of aches and pains. It works by normalizing the environment around the brain and spinal cord, enhancing the body’s natural ability to heal and self-correct. As a result, this technique can be helpful for both acute and chronic pain. Whether you are recovering from a sports injury, surgical procedure, chronic arthritis, stroke, or a neurological condition, CST may provide meaningful benefits.