Temporalmandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction Therapy
The Upstate Regional Rehabilitation Centers at University Hospital offers a program designed to treat Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. The TMJs are located on either side of the face where the jawbone connects with the skull.
TMJ dysfunction is a class of disorders of these joints that result in symptoms ranging from clicking or popping of the jaw with movement to pain or limited jaw movement. This may cause difficulties with eating or talking.
Following an examination by a skilled therapist of the Temporomandibular Joint and adjacent cervical spine, an individualized treatment program is initiated. Treatments may include massage, soft tissue mobilizations, ROM exercises, and modalities for pain control. The focus of these treatments is either the myofascial component or the soft tissue restrictions usually present with TMD. Goals for the treatment are patient-specific and incorporate an individual's needs, but generally focus on increasing ROM and decreasing pain. The treatments are painless and effective in many cases, making more invasive treatments unnecessary. The treatments are a useful adjunct to intra-oral appliances.
A physician's referral is required for evaluation and treatment within this program. Services are provided at the Institute for Human Performance. Call 464-1900 for an appointment.
What are the effects of this condition?
- Jaw locking open or closed, decreased range of motion
- Jaw clicking/popping
- Difficulty chewing, eating, talking
- Pain and sensitivity around the face, neck and head
- Headaches, ear ringing/pressure/fullness
Why is rehabilitation important?
How does the Regional Rehabilitation Center treat individuals who have been affected by TMJ?
TMJ dysfunctions typically fall into the following three categories:
- Classification 1: Masticatory muscle disorders (muscles used for eating)
- Classification 2: joint disorders related to TMJ disc dysfunction
- Classification 3: joint disorders related to TMJ arthralgia (osteoarthritis etc)
Based on your specific signs and symptoms, outpatient physical therapy services may include:
- Joint mobilizations of the jaw and neck
- Soft tissue mobilization (instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization, cupping)
- Posture training
- Strengthening and range of motion exercises for the jaw, neck, postural muscles
- Behavior modification and relaxation techniques
TMJ dysfunctions are typically multifactorial, so an individualized treatment plan is important. Following an examination by a skilled therapist of the Temporomandibular Joint and adjacent cervical spine, an individualized treatment program is initiated. Treatments include manual therapy techniques to release tight muscles around the temporomandibular joint and neck regions, joint mobilizations to improve range of motion and mobility , stretching and strengthening exercises may be used to improve ROM, to improve strength and to improve posture and behavior modification.
Helpful Links:
Community Supports are available for individuals who have been affected by TMJ: