Understanding TMJ
TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction and describes all symptoms associated with jaw joint disorders. The TMJ is pivotal for chewing and speech and problems arise due to bruxism, dental procedures, gum chewing or stress-induced clenching.
Studies show that two thirds of the population have some degree of TMJ symptoms causing pain and discomfort, grinding or clenching of teeth.
Some people have persistent problems with their jaw resulting in stiffness, pain, temporal headaches or ear blockages. There is a lot we can do to help address these symptoms and prevent long term damage and reoccurrence.
Getting You The Right Treatment
All our osteopaths are very familiar with the construction of the jaw. We will fully assess and treat any movement restrictions and improve the function of the surrounding muscles. The muscles that open and close the jaw can become strained, uncomfortable or tight and often develop painful trigger points, resulting in one side working differently than the other.
There can be some disc displacement in the actual jaw joint or arthritis which may need to be addressed once the muscular strains have been alleviated.
There is a myriad of different options when treating the jaw. Some may be rather tender but worth doing to gain pain-relief. Muscle energy techniques can be a very useful approach. It is a manipulative technique that engages the restrictive barriers within the jaw. Myofascial release involves stretching and repatterning the soft tissues and joint restrictions. Balanced ligamentous tension techniques are also useful as they work primarily on the ligaments inside and outside of the jaw. We are well versed with intra-aural techniques too.
We want you to leave with more jaw movement and to feel less tension around the jaw, temple and upper neck areas. We will instruct you on how to stretch and mobilise the jaw and how to massage the area to maintain progress between visits.
