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TMJ Dysfunction
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TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint.These joints are among some of the most frequently used joints in the body, allowing us to talk, chew, yawn, sneeze and swallow. The average person opens his or her mouth over 10,000 times per day so it is easy to see how important it is to perform this activity correctly. The medical term used to describe the disorder is TMD which stands for Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction syndrome (TMD).
Why Physical Therapy?
TMJ problems can lead to chronic conditions if left untreated. Early symptoms mayinclude fatigue and tightness of the facial and neck muscles, headaches, pain with chewing or talking, limited or painful opening of the mouth, and clicking or popping of the TMJ. Adults who ignore years of clicking and popping often progress to acute close lock conditions, degenerative joint disease and chronic pain.
It is our experience that early intervention is key to preventing many long term problems. Most patients have less pain and better function within several physical therapy sessions. The goal is to move you towards independent management and a home program to reduce pain, improve function, and protect against further injury to the TMJ.
Why Rebound Physical Therapy?
Your physical therapist at Rebound understands the mechanics of the TMJ and its relationship to the head and neck.He or she will work in a team approach with your dentist to achieve maximum pain free function of the muscles and joints of the TMJ region.
Your physical therapist will evaluate your posture, the mechanics of how your head, neck, and jaw currently move, as well as the state of muscle tension in your head, neck and jaw.
If you are in severe distress (acute lock jaw, dislocated disk, severe headache, etc.) or experienced trauma to the jaw resulting in displacement recent research indicates it is important to be treated within 48 hours for best results and to prevent further chronic issues.
Can’t find the condition you are looking for? Contact us to learn about additional conditions we treat.
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