Physiotherapy of the temporomandibular joint deals with the structures of the head and neck, restoring their normal tone and function. It works alongside treatment provided by dentists, orthodontists and prosthodontists.
Problems that respond to TMJ physiotherapy
- Increasing jaw pain near the ears when eating or opening the mouth wide
- Restricted or excessive mobility of the joint
- Joint clicking — pathological acoustic symptoms
- The head of the mandible jumping — disturbed movement without an audible click
- Myofascial pain of the head, face, neck and nape
- Abnormal movement patterns, that is parafunctions
Therapy
- Detailed history
- Palpation of the temporomandibular joints and the surrounding area — neck, shoulders, mobility of the upper cervical spine
- Examination of the muscles and tissues of the mouth and tongue
- Post-isometric relaxation of the masseter muscles
- Mobilisation of the temporomandibular joint
- Manipulation of the joint if required
- Therapy of the tissues inside the mouth
- Home exercises