The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull. The joint allows your jaw to move up and down and side to side so that you can chew your food, talk, and yawn. TMJ dysfunction (TMD, TMJD) is an umbrella term covering any abnormality of the muscles, bones, joints, and nerves in the area. Symptoms of TMD include:
- pain in the jaw or near the ear, especially with chewing, talking, or yawning
- painful or non-painful popping, clicking, or locking of the jaw
- swelling in the side of the face
- headaches
- neck pain
Each treatment plan is unique and individualized. We identify the source of your symptoms and help you to correct impairments contributing to your condition. We utilize skilled, hands-on techniques to improve your symptoms and mobility. This often times includes both internal and external TMJ mobilization or soft tissue techniques. Additionally, it will likely include manual therapy targeting the neck. We are extremely precise and thorough in our prescription of stretching and strengthening of the jaw and neck. By restoring normal movement patterns, we are able to help you know what you need to do to prevent future recurrence of injury.
We will collaborate care with your dentist in order to maximize your response to treatment. This may include recommending or referring you for a splint or night guard.
