Does this describe you?
At Wandsworth physiotherapy and osteopathy our highly experienced TMJ physiotherapists treat people just like you and help them get back to what they love doing without further jaw pain.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders refers to a range of conditions affecting the TMJ itself, which connects your jawbone to your skull. This disorder can cause discomfort, pain and limitations in jaw movement. This can impact daily activities such as eating, speaking, and even sleeping.
The temporomandibular joint is a complex structure comprised of the jawbone (mandible), temporal bone of the skull, and a disc that cushions the joint. Muscles surrounding the joint, including the masseter, temporalis, and pterygoid muscles, play a crucial role in jaw movement and stability.
The TMJ functions through a combination of hinge and sliding motions, allowing for the opening, closing, and side-to-side movements of the jaw. The coordinated action of muscles, ligaments, and the joint itself enables smooth and pain-free jaw function.
TMJ disorders can arise from various factors, including:
Direct impact to the jaw, such as from a fall or blow, can damage the TMJ and surrounding structures.
Persistent clenching or grinding of teeth, often during sleep, can exert excessive pressure on the TMJ, leading to inflammation and discomfort in the joint. It can also lead to hypertrophy of the muscles of mastication – predominantly the masseter muscle. This becomes enlarged and painful.
An abnormal bite or jaw alignment can strain the TMJ, causing pain and dysfunction. As can stiff and dysfunction in the cervical vertebra. The neck should usually also be assessed when you have jaw pain.
Tension and stress can contribute to jaw clenching and muscle tightness, exacerbating TMJ symptoms.
Conditions such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ, leading to inflammation, pain and stiffness.
Conditions such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ, leading to inflammation, pain and stiffness.
Symptoms of TMJ disorder may vary from person to person but commonly include:
Treatment for TMJ disorder aims to alleviate symptoms, improve jaw function, and address underlying causes. Here are some common treatment modalities:
Simple self-care techniques can often provide relief from mild TMJ symptoms. These may include applying ice packs to the jaw, practicing stress-reduction techniques, and avoiding hard or chewy foods.
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can help alleviate pain and inflammation associated with TMJ disorder. In some cases, muscle relaxants or anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed to reduce muscle tension and stress.
A physiotherapist can design a personalised exercise program to strengthen jaw muscles, improve range of motion, and promote relaxation. Manual therapy techniques such as massage, acupuncture and joint mobilisation may also be utilised to alleviate pain and stiffness.
This is a muscle relaxant that can be injected into the masseter and temporalis muscles to relax them for a period of a few months. This will decrease their strength and can take pressure out of the TMJ allowing the pain to settle down.
If your TMJ disorder is related to dental issues such as misalignment or bruxism, your dentist may recommend treatments such as orthodontic work, occlusal splints (mouth guards), or dental restorations to correct bite abnormalities and reduce jaw strain.
Designed & Developed by HMDG
