TMJ
Headaches and facial pain can be related to problems in the TMJ (jaw joint, or tempormandibular joint or craniomandibular joint). Physical therapy treatment for this type of headache is available at Results Physiotherapy Centers.
Common problems of the TMJ that may cause headaches and/or facial pain include tension and/or weakness in the muscles that move the TMJ. These muscles are involved in chewing, swallowing and talking. Often popping or locking in the jaw is noticed when the TMJ is impaired. The TMJ can refer pain into the head and other parts of the face without a lot of pain noticed at the jaw until a dentist or physical therapist specifically examines it.
TMJ problems can be closely associated with dental problems. Dentists and physical therapists often combine efforts in the management of TMJ problems. Physical therapists utilize manual therapy techniques, exercise, posture instruction, occasionally biofeedback as well as various heat and cold modalities to restore normal length, tone and activity to muscles of the TMJ and to reduce any inflammation that might occur in the joints.
All therapists at our centers are specifically trained in manual therapy techniques that are most frequently cited, when combined with exercise and posture education, as the best physical therapy approaches to TMJ related headache. All treatments are individualized based on our therapists’ assessment of each patients posture, TMJ condition and mobility and specific muscle condition, strength and length.
Symptoms You May Notice if you have TMJ Problems:
- Head and/or ear pain
- Sore and stiff jaw muscles
- Locking of the jaw in a shut or open position
- Frequent headaches and/or neck aches
- Pain that worsens when teeth are clenched
- Pain that worsens with stress
- A clicking, popping, or grating sound within the jaw joint
- Pain with opening/closing of your mouth
- Teeth that no longer touch when you bite
- Teeth that meet differently from time to time
- Difficulty using your front teeth to bite or tear food
- Teeth that are sensitive, loose, broken, or worn
