TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint or what we commonly refer to as our jaw. TMJ disorder (TMD) is a collective term for a number of functional disorders or conditions affecting the head, neck and jaw. TMD occurs when the jaw and the chewing muscles are not working together correctly. It can be a major source of discomfort, pain and impairment for many people.
Common symptoms of TMD include: jaw tenderness, difficulty chewing, limited movement of the mouth, headaches, ringing in the ear, facial and neck pain. It is one of the smallest joints in the body, but can be one of the most debilitating because we must frequently use it throughout the day when eating or talking.
Why Choose Progressive Rehab?
At Progressive Rehab our physiotherapists work closely with your dentist and medical doctor to decrease pain and restore normal function. Our therapists have specific training in TMD evaluation and will educate you on your conditions, and establish strategies to manage underlying dysfunctions by performing various treatments that may include:
- Manual therapy to reduce pain, restore muscle and joint mobility
- Craniofacial techniques to restore muscle balance and reduce spasm
- Stability and strengthening exercises for hyper mobile joints
- Motor control exercises to restore normal function to your temperomandibular region
- Education on stress reduction and proper eating and sleeping habits
- Acupuncture – Neurofunctional and electroacupuncture
- Gunn IMS
- Ultrasound
- TENS
Symptoms of TMD can be mild or quite severe. They can progress to the point that patients have a difficult time eating solid food. Here is a list of common symptoms that patients experience when dealing with TMD:
- Pain in the jaw (in front of the ear)
- Headaches
- Clicking, popping or grating sounds when opening/closing the mouth
- Difficulty chewing, taking or yawning
- Locking of the jaw
- Tinnitus (ringing in your ears)
- Swelling on the side of your face
- Numbness or tingling in the face
- Tightness pain and spasm of the jaw muscles
- Dizziness
- Neck and/or shoulder pain
- Difficulty opening your mouth wide
- Tired feeling in your face