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Temporal Mandibular Dysfunction (TMD)
TMJ stands for Temporomandibular joint or the jaw joint. The TMJ’s are the
small joints in front of each ear that attach the lower jaw (mandible) to
the skull (maxilla). They allow you to perform such functions as opening and closing
your mouth, chewing, speaking and swallowing.
TMJ dysfunction refers to a malfunction of how the jaw joint should work
normally. You may experience a variety of symptoms including:
- facial pain
- pain in the jaw joint and surrounding tissues, including the ear
- jaw locking open or closed
- clicking or clunking of the jaw
- limited opening or inability to open the mouth comfortably
- headaches
- bite that feels uncomfortable, "off", or as if it is continually changing
- neck, shoulder and back pain
- swelling on the side of the face
How Therapy Can Help
Therapy can help by increasing your ability to actively participate in
everyday activities including work,
speech, eating normal foods and by reducing pain and discomfort. This is
accomplished through a comprehensive initial evaluation and specialized
treatment.
What to Expect
Once you have
scheduled your first appointment with us, we will need to gather
important information to ensure we provide you with the best possible care.
A patient information packet will need to be completed and provided to our
staff when you arrive for your first appointment. The patient
information packet will include a description of what to expect, as well as
a patient history questionnaire. Your patient information packet can be
mailed to your home or
downloaded
here.
Following the evaluation, an individualized treatment plan is developed.
This plan is based on the evaluation findings, and input from your physician. Treatment for temporal mandibular dysfunction may include the
following:
- soft tissue massage
- joint mobilization
- patient education
- ultrasound
- iontophoresis
- ice/heat
- functional exercises
- home exercise program
Your doctor will receive a copy of the initial evaluation, regular progress
notes, and the discharge summary.
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Copyright 2010 Physical
Therapy Specialists |
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