Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ) are problems of the jaw joints and surrounding muscles and ligaments. It might be induced by damage, an incorrect bite, arthritis or wear and tear. Jaw soreness, headaches, earaches, and facial discomfort are some of the most frequent symptoms.
What is TMJ?
The TMJ is a term that refers to the temporomandibular joint. Your temporomandibular joints are located in front of your ears on both sides of your face. The TMJs connect your lower jawbone to your skull and help you chew and talk, among other things.
What causes the temporomandibular joint disorder?
There are many possible causes of temporomandibular joint disorder. Some causes may include:
-Arthritis: This is a common cause of TMJ disorder. Arthritis can damage the cartilage that cushions the joint, causing pain and inflammation.
-Dislocation: Dislocation occurs when the ball at the end of the lower jawbone is forced out of its socket. This can happen due to a blow to the face or TMJ, or from clenching or grinding your teeth.
-Bruxism: Bruxism is a condition in which you clench or grind your teeth. This can put a lot of stress on the TMJ, causing pain and inflammation.
-Injury: A blow to the face or head can cause TMJ disorder.
What are the symptoms of the temporomandibular joint disorder?
The symptoms of TMJ disorder can vary from person to person. Some common symptoms include:
-Pain in the jaw joint
-Pain in the muscles surrounding the jaw
-Clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw
-Jaw locking or difficulty opening the mouth
-Pain in the face, neck, or shoulders
-Headaches
-Dizziness
-Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
If you think you may have TMJ disorder, our physical therapist can help. We will perform a thorough evaluation to determine the cause of your symptoms. We will then create a customized treatment plan to relieve your pain and improve your jaw function. Treatment may include exercises, manual therapy, and education on proper mouth and jaw posture. Contact us today