TMJ Dysfunction Treatment
Physical Therapist in Fishers, IN
Temporomandibular joint disorder or dysfunction, or TMD, is a common condition that limits the natural functions of the jaw, such as opening the mouth and chewing.
How can I tell if I have TMJ dysfunction?
The exact cause of a person’s TMJ disorder is often difficult to determine. There is no single method for diagnosing TMJ dysfunction. Your physician may also send you to an otolaryngologist or dentist specializing in jaw disorders. The idea is to rule out other medical problems before diagnosis as it may overlap with another condition known as Trigeminal Neuralgia, salivary gland disease, or swollen lymph nodes. Your pain may be due to a combination of factors, such as genetics, arthritis, or jaw injury. It can also cause a range of problems, from poor posture, chronic jaw clenching, and poor teeth alignment to fracture or conditions such as lockjaw, where the muscles around the jaw spasm and reduce the mouth’s ability to open. The symptoms of TMD can be temporary or last for years. Jaw pain is the most common symptom. In most cases, the pain and discomfort associated with TMJ disorders are temporary and can be relieved with conservative management or nonsurgical treatments.
How Can Physical Therapy Help?
In some cases, home remedies can be used to treat TMJ dysfunction. Some respond well to over-the-counter pain medications. Applying ice packs directly to the jaw joint can also help relieve pain. You may also find temporary relief using essential oils. When home remedies do not work, providing long-term relief, medical intervention may be necessary. For example, muscle relaxers or stronger anti-inflammatory medications may be required. Dental splints to keep teeth properly aligned to prevent tooth grinding.
Physical therapists help people with TMD ease pain, regain normal jaw movement, and lessen daily stress on the jaw. Your physical therapists at Osteopractic Physical Therapy of Central Indiana are experienced in analyzing jaw mobility and releasing muscle tension in areas surrounding your neck and head. In addition, physical therapy aims to restore normal function and interaction of jaw muscles and joints. The treatment plan may include a combination of dry needling, modalities, and manual therapy, including jaw exercises, soft tissue massage, and myofascial techniques.
Get started today!
Request your appointment at Osteopractic Physical Therapy of Central Indiana to get started. Don’t suffer from jaw pain and stiffness any longer. We are here to help you relieve pain.
