Jaw Problems Or TMJ Issues

The jaw, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) are the joints that are located on either side of the head. They open and close the mouth. These joints are functionally related to the head and neck. Symptoms of temporomandibular disorders (TMD):

• Jaw pain or tightness in the jaw

• Clicking or grinding with opening or closing of the mouth

• Limited opening of the mouth / stiffness

• Tooth pain or ear ache

• Headaches

• Dizziness

"As in many problems of the human body, a jaw problem is most of the time something that has been building up over time." ​ It could be caused suddenly due to an acute trauma (direct impact to the face or chin), but mostly it’s a combination of either stress, bruxism, postural tension or neck issues.

The jaw, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a joint in the skull which makes opening and closing of the mouth possible. It's a 'ball-in-a-socket' joint with a small joint in between. Sometimes, the disc can move a bit, causing the jaw to click with movements such as eating, jawning or simply opening or closing the mouth. In some cases, the jaw can get stuck in the opening or closed position of the mouth. As with all other joint issues, there will be muscles affected with this problem as well. The Masseter muscle is a common overworked and tight muscle, which can cause pain and referring pain as well.

RELATIONSHIP TMJ AND THE NECK

Due to its close proximity with the top of the neck and the ligament connection, there is big overlap between the TMJ and head and neck issues. With most TMJ issues, there can be some upper neck problems expected as well. Headaches and dizziness are also symptoms that can be related to the same issue, and should be assessed by your physio.

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TREATMENT OF JAW PAIN

In most cases, jaw problems can be treated effectively with physiotherapy. Gentle manual techniques or dry needling can both be efficient ways to get rid of the problems.

Mobilising the joint from inside the mouth is an effective technique often used at Physio K. We put gloves on and manually get more mobility in that TMJ. Soft tissue techniques to reduce the tightness of the tight muscles, including the masseter muscle, can often also be really helpful. Dry needling of the affected muscles is often really effective and in most cases, has a really good effect on the joint and the muscle at the same time. Some specific exercises at home can be given to maintain and further improve the good health of that joint as well.