Temporomandibular joint
TMJ/Jaw Pain The temporomandibular joint (known as the “TMJ”) or “jaw joint” can be a source of pain located around the jaw itself, head, ear and can be a source of headache.
The cause of pain can be due to a traumatic event (such as whiplash injuries, direct trauma, pain following wisdom teeth removal and post orthodontic procedures), arthritic changes and grinding of the teeth at night. It can, however, often be of insidious onset.
Symptoms will often include clicking, clunking, pain with eating, headaches after eating and pain with biting, talking and chewing. You may also develop some neck pain related to the jaw dysfunction.
Physiotherapy treatment directed at the TMJ can be effective in relieving symptoms and restoring normal jaw function.
Initial assessment usually includes a thorough history of the symptoms, postural assessment, assessment of the jaw itself and any movement restrictions and assessment of any muscular abnormalities surrounding the jaw.
Treatment will involve local physiotherapy directed at the TMJ, correction of muscle imbalances, postural correction (which can sometimes have a compounding effect on the jaw pain) and home exercises to address these issues. Your physiotherapist may also need to liaise with your dentist during the course of treatment.
