Temporo-Mandibular Joint Dysfunction

Temporal Mandibular Joint (TMJ) is the joint between the jaw or mandible and the skull. It is used every time we chew, talk, or even swallow. Its anatomy, as well as its movement, is very complex. There are significant functional relationships between the TMJ and cranio-cervical (head and neck) neuromuscular systems and these can often become dysfunctional (TMD). This dysfunction can cause pain in the jaw or face, popping or clicking during chewing, limitation of jaw movement or headaches. The muscles involved in TMD are frequently an untreated factor in patients with headaches that may have failed other forms of treatment. Our conservative approach to temporomandibular dysfunction consists of a detailed examination of the TMJ and its function, as well as the function of the cervical spine (neck). Treatment focuses on releasing the tension with the proper soft tissue treatments, in some cases mobilizing the jaw or manipulating the neck. Patients are engaged in an active care model that works on how to retrain proper jaw motion with rehabilitation exercises. The goal of this treatment is to restore proper function of the joint and stabilize its motion.