What is the TMJ?
The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is the important hinge joint between the jaw (or mandible) and head (temporal bone). It is key in eating, breathing, talking and importantly how we express ourselves. TMD/TMJ Physiotherapy treatment is available at our Cheltenham clinic, servicing Bayside and Southeast Melbourne.
What is Temporomandibular Disorder?
When things go wrong, such as jaw stiffness, jaw pain, jaw clicking or jaw locking, the condition is known as temporomandibular disorder (TMD). There are different kinds of TMDs, relating to the anatomical problem in the muscles, ligaments the disc and the joint itself, just like any other musculoskeletal structure in the body.
They are common, affecting up to three-quarters of people during life. Most resolve over time, however, 10% of people suffer debilitating symptoms.
What are the issues and symptoms I might have?
Here are some common kinds of TMD-jaw problems that we treat directly or in collaboration with other health professionals, such as your Dentist, Oral Medicine Specialist or Maxillo-Facial Surgeon.
- Muscular basis:
- including clenching.
- neck and jaw postural control.
- parafunctions (nail-biting, chewing gum).
- Joint factors:
- TMJ joint clicks.
- TMJ disc displacements.
- TMJ joint locking.
- Joint stiffness, both neck and TMJ.
- TMJ osteoarthritis.
- Psychological factors:
- Stress, anxiety, emotional trauma.
- Lifestyle factors
