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Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction: How physio can help with jaw pain

The Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most used joints in the body. We use our jaw to eat, talk, yawn and express our emotions. There are many causes of TMJ dysfunction, it can include genetic predisposition, trauma to the jaw, grinding your teeth (bruxism) and arthritis. These factors can often irritate the disc inside the jaw to cause it to move out of proper alignment. The shock absorbing disc is important because it allows a smooth gliding motion. This is why some people with this condition experience clicking and grinding sensation when they open their mouth. Bruxism can often lead to overused facial and neck muscles. This muscular tension can often refer to the head which can cause headaches.

Signs and Symptoms:

  • Localised pain and tenderness at the jaw
  • Difficulty eating due to jaw pain
  • Difficulty opening and closing the mouth
  • Headaches
  • Clicking and grinding sensation when using the jaw

What can I do about my TMJ dysfunction?

Did you know that up to 60% of the population experience an episode of TMJ at some stage of their life? It can be a major source of pain and disability for people with TMJ issues. In most cases, physiotherapy is an effective technique to help relieve TMJ dysfunction symptoms. A physiotherapist will take a clinical assessment to determine that factors that aggravate your TMJ symptoms. They will provide rehabilitation exercises and activity modification advice to help alleviate the symptoms. For example, let’s say opening the jaw too wide causes the TMJ pain then a physiotherapist will provide some motor coordination exercises to assist the jaw to move more smoothly in the joint. Activity modification advice can involve temporary having small bites during meals and avoid chewing gum. It is often these factors that can further irritate the TMJ.

The habit of grinding the teeth can cause facial and neck muscles to be overused which can make them feel quite tight. For this reason, physiotherapists also use soft tissue techniques to reduce muscular tension on the facial and neck muscles. Specialised mouth guards can be used to help reduce the impact of bruxism on the teeth and TMJ. A specialised mouth guard is often required because people with TMJ are often unaware that they grind their teeth especially if they grind their teeth at night.

The management of TMJ dysfunction often involves a multidisciplinary team that include your GP, physiotherapist, dentist and specialist. At Myphysio, our physiotherapists are equipped in the treatment of TMJ dysfunction. Book an appointment online or give our clinic a call on 9808 5948. You can also follow us on Facebook or Instagram to stay updated on our physiotherapy tips.

References:

1) Okeson JP. Management of Temporomandibular Disorders and Occlusion (ed 3). St. Louis