TMJ Disorders

TMJ Disorders

Understanding TMJ disorders

 

The temporomandibular joint, or more commonly referred to as the TMJ, is the area where you jaw meets your skull at the temporal bone. The joint itself is made up of the mandibular condyle, a disk and the temporal fossa.

TMJ-related pain can be attributed to a variety of factors, such as, biomechanical dysfunction, degenerative disorders, systemic disorders and non-tmj pathology. Through chiropractic care, our focus is on the biomechanical aspect of the TMJ, which may include the muscles, joints, discs, capsules and ligaments involved in the jaw, head and neck region

Signs and symptoms our TMJ chiropractors may see:
  • Jaw pain (with or without movement)
  • Restricted jaw movement (with or without pain)
  • Pain with chewing or talking
  • Clicking or popping associated with the TMJ
  • Pain referral in ear, temple, sinus or cheek region
  • Recurrent headaches
  • Uncomfortable or unusual bite

 

What a chiropractic TMJ assessment might involve:
  • Comprehensive history of the TMJ condition
  • Postural evaluation of spine, head and jaw position
  • TMJ motion and function examination
  • Internal/external jaw assessment of joint, muscles and other tissues

 

What chiropractic treatment of TMJ disorders might involve:
  • Education on the nature of the condition
  • Manual therapies (adjustments, mobilisations, soft tissue therapy, dry needling)
  • Gentle exercise therapy
  • Guidance and advice on better self-management

Chiropractic management in TMJ disorders is focused on pain relief, better self-management,  improving movement and restoring optimal function to the area.