TMJD
TMJD Physical Therapy in McKinney, TX
If you grind your teeth or suffer from headaches, ear pain, or jaw clicking, you might have temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome, also known as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD). TMJD results from injury to the TMJ, which is the joint that connects your jaw to your skull.
The physical therapists at FYZICAL McKinney Lake Forest can help determine the underlying cause of your TMJD and create an individualized treatment plan to decrease your pain, improve function, and enhance your quality of life.
The physical therapists at FYZICAL McKinney Lake Forest can help determine the underlying cause of your TMJD and create an individualized treatment plan to decrease your pain, improve function, and enhance your quality of life.
What Is The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)?
The TMJ is a complex joint connecting your lower jaw to the skull in front of your ears. This joint allows you to perform essential movements for speaking, chewing, and facial expressions. A disorder in the TMJ can affect the muscles controlling joint movement, leading to pain.
Symptoms Of TMJD
- Pain with chewing
- Clicking or popping of your jaw
- Locking of your jaw
- Decreased movement of your jaw
- Ear pain
- Nerve inflammation
- Headaches
- Tooth grinding
- Tenderness in your jaw
- TMJ dislocation in some cases
TMJD can cause uncomfortable symptoms, including;
Causes of TMJD
In many cases, the underlying cause of TMJD can be difficult to diagnose. The muscle tightness and dysfunction in TMJD may result from various factors, including;
- Genetics
- Jaw injury
- Arthritis
- Neck misalignment
- Teeth or jaw misalignment
- Stress
- Excessive gum chewing
- Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching)
Benefits of TMJ Treatment
Physical therapy provides several benefits for TMJD. The treatment can help with the following;
- Pain reduction
- Improved mobility
- Restored function
- Reduced inflammation
- Prevention of recurrence
It is important to note that most cases of TMJD resolve without surgical intervention. However, if you do need surgery for your TMJD, physical therapy plays an important role in your recovery. This treatment can help to minimize muscle tightness and scar tissue formation and also encourages proper healing.
The Role Of Physical Therapy For TMJD In McKinney, TX?
Physical therapy can decrease symptoms of TMJD and restore the normal functioning of your TMJ. This treatment is a safe and effective option for treating the underlying cause of your TMJD.
When you visit your physical therapist for treatment, they will assess your condition and ask questions about your medical history. You may also undergo a physical examination. These help your physical therapist to create a personalized treatment plan.
This treatment plan may include one or more of the following treatment techniques;
When you visit your physical therapist for treatment, they will assess your condition and ask questions about your medical history. You may also undergo a physical examination. These help your physical therapist to create a personalized treatment plan.
This treatment plan may include one or more of the following treatment techniques;
Manual Therapy
Manual therapy is a hands-on treatment that increases the range of motion, decreases muscle tension, and improves TMJ alignment. Your physical therapist can use massage, soft tissue release, and joint mobilization during treatment to relieve pain, promote relaxation, and improve mobility.
Therapeutic Exercises
Therapeutic exercises can help manage pain and relieve TMJD symptoms. Your physical therapist may also show you specific exercises to stretch and strengthen your jaw muscles. They will also show you safe ways to do these exercises to prevent further injury.
Posture Correction
Postural issues can aggravate your TMJD. Your physical therapist will monitor your tongue and swallowing patterns and other postures that affect your TMJ. Correcting postural issues in the skull, jaw, neck, and upper back can help with TMJ pain.
Patient Education
Your physical therapist will also educate you on managing symptoms and preventing further problems. This may include advice such as wearing a nightguard, managing stress levels, and avoiding activities that irritate your TMJ, such as gum chewing.
Your physical therapist may also recommend splints to keep your jaw in a comfortable position, reducing pain and inflammation.
Your physical therapist may also recommend splints to keep your jaw in a comfortable position, reducing pain and inflammation.
Why Should You Choose TMJ Disorders Treatment in McKinney, TX?
At FYZICAL McKinney Lake Forest, our skilled physical therapists will assess your jaw and determine the root cause of your TMJD. They will then create an individualized treatment plan tailored to your needs, which will help manage your symptoms, restore the normal functioning of your jaw, and improve your quality of life.
If you or a loved one are suffering from symptoms of TMJD, contact us today to learn more about physical therapy for TMJD.
If you or a loved one are suffering from symptoms of TMJD, contact us today to learn more about physical therapy for TMJD.
FAQs
What Is A TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder is a disorder of the jaw joint and muscles controlling jaw movement. It can lead to pain and dysfunction, making it difficult to eat, speak, or swallow.
What's The Difference Between TMD And TMJ?
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint. This joint connects your lower jaw to your skull and is responsible for movement in your lower jaw. TMD (Temporomandibular joint disorder) is a disorder in the TMJ that can cause pain when you move your lower jaw, making speaking, chewing, or facial expressions difficult.
Will My TMJ Physical Therapy Be Covered by Insurance?
Insurance may cover TMJ treatment depending on your plan, location, and other factors. You can contact your insurance provider to determine if your plan covers the cost.