TMJ

How TMJ treatment works

Temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders (often referred to as TMJ), encompass a range of conditions of the jaw muscles and jaw joints. These jaw disorders often result in feelings of pain and discomfort in and around the mouth and jaw areas. The jaw joint acts as a connector between the lower jaw and the bone located on the side of the head. To locate the jaw joint, simply place your fingers in front of your ears and open and close your mouth. There are muscles around the jaw joint that allow for position control and movement of the jaw bone. While TMJ conditions are often not considered serious problems, jaw pain can result in a significant reduction in quality of life and can cause long-lasting symptoms.

Symptoms of TMJ:

• Pain in and around the jaw area
• Clicking in the jaw
• Headaches
• Locking of the jaw (lockjaw)
• Jaw tightness

Treatment for TMJ:

• Neuromuscular re-education to get your joint movement back to normal
• Manual techniques, ultrasound, electric stimulation, and heat/ice treatment for pain relief and less inflammation
• Jaw exercises to strengthening surrounding muscles

Schedule your appointment today at an Ivy Rehab Network location near you.