TMJD and How Physical Therapy Can Help
Do you ever have persistent headaches, grind your teeth, or hear clicking sounds when you open your mouth or while eating? These symptoms might be signs of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD). This common condition affects the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, leading to discomfort and limited jaw movement. Fortunately, physical therapy has emerged as a promising approach to alleviate TMJD symptoms and improve overall jaw function.
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD), also known as TMJD syndrome, encompasses a range of conditions that impact the temporomandibular joint, connecting the jaw to the skull. It may cause pain and discomfort in the temporomandibular joint and the surrounding muscles. While the exact causes of TMJD can vary, factors such as jaw injury, arthritis, stress, and teeth grinding are often associated with its development.
What causes TMJD?
- Poor alignment of or trauma to the teeth or jaw
- Teeth grinding
- Poor posture
- Stress
- Arthritis or other inflammatory musculoskeletal disorders
- Excessive gum chewing
Symptoms of TMJD:
- Constant headaches and facial pain
- Difficulty in opening or closing the mouth
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw joint
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw muscles
- Earache or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
How Physical Therapy Can Help TMJD
Physical therapy offers a holistic approach to managing TMJD symptoms and improving jaw function. Here's how it can help:
- Manual Therapy: Our licensed physical therapists use hands-on techniques to improve jaw mobility, reduce muscle tension, and alleviate pain. Manual therapy may involve gentle jaw exercises, massage, and joint mobilization to restore optimal jaw movement.
- Exercise and Stretching: We will create a customized exercises and stretching routines that can strengthen the jaw muscles and increase flexibility. These exercises can help stabilize the jaw joint and prevent further discomfort.
- Posture Correction: Poor posture can also contribute to TMJD symptoms. Our physical therapists can assess and address postural issues that may place additional stress on the jaw, neck, and shoulders, thus alleviating TMJD-related pain.
- Stress Management: Stress can really add to TMJD. Physical therapists may incorporate stress management strategies, such as relaxation exercises and mindfulness practices, to help patients reduce stress levels and alleviate the symptoms.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Physical therapists may provide guidance on lifestyle changes, including dietary recommendations and proper chewing techniques, to minimize discomfort and improve jaw function.
TMJD can significantly affect someone's quality of life, leading to persistent pain and discomfort. However, with the help of our licensed physical therapists' individuals suffering from TMJD can find relief and regain optimal jaw function. Our clinics effectively address TMJD symptoms and improve overall well-being by incorporating manual therapy, tailored exercises, posture correction, stress management techniques, and lifestyle modifications. If you or someone you love is experiencing TMJD symptoms, schedule an appointment with one of our physical therapists today by calling 303-409-2133 or contact us here.