Physiotherapy Relief from Jaw & Face Discomfort.
The Temporo-Mandibular Joint (TMJ), responsible for our ability to chew, speak, and perform daily functions, is an intricate mechanical joint system. Many are unaware of its intimate connection with the neck, inner ear, teeth, and the base of the skull, collaborating with these structures to facilitate normal movement patterns.
Understanding TMJ
The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, links your jaw and skull. When this joint sustains injury or damage, it can lead to a localized pain condition known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome.
Root Causes of TMJ Problems Include:
- Jaw pain
- Jaw clicking
- Difficulty opening the mouth
- Face pain
- Ear Fullness or blockages
- Dizziness
Research showsTMJ pain and dysfunction is common in clients who also have:
- Neck pain
- Thoracic pain
- Low back pain
- Scoliosis
- Headaches
- Fibromyalgia
- Stress sufferers
- Those who have been involved in past motor vehicle accidents
Finding Relief for Jaw Pain
While referrals from dentists and ENT surgeons to our physiotherapists at Wellers Hill Physiotherapy are growing, some remain unaware that physiotherapy can effectively address a broad spectrum of symptoms arising from TMJ dysfunction. These may include localized jaw pain, jaw clicking, ear fullness, and muscle tension around the jaw.
Anatomy Matters
The TMJ stands out as a complex joint due to the interplay among the disc, surrounding muscles, ligaments, the TMJ joint, and the cranial bones. Its sensitivity to pain arises from its rich supply of blood vessels and nerves.
Prevalence and Symptoms
Approximately 25% of adults experience some degree of TMJ disorder, with varying levels of severity. Symptoms include jaw clicking, immobility, pain in the jaw, neck, and head, as well as earaches, fullness, and headaches. Dizziness, tinnitus, and cervical spine pain can also be linked to TMJ issues.
Brisbane's Jaw Pain & Face Pain Physiotherapy Solutions
The TMJ is influenced by multiple factors, including head position, the cervical spine, the hyoid bone, and posture. Our specialised physiotherapists assess the TMJ, its surroundings, the cervical spine, and the shoulder girdle, along with the patient’s posture, tongue, mouth, and facial functions. This comprehensive evaluation reveals the root causes of jaw pain or referred pain.
Depending on the diagnosis, our highly skilled physiotherapists at Wellers Hill Physiotherapy employ a range of effective treatments. These may include soft tissue releases, massage, and trigger point therapy to alleviate muscle tension in the jaw, face, and neck. Mobilisation techniques are used to reduce pain and restore TMJ mobility.
Guidance on proper posture and home exercises is essential for strengthening weakened facial, neck, and shoulder muscles while establishing correct postural alignment. We encourage our patients to maintain their exercises and postural corrections for lasting improvements. Most patients experience significant relief through our TMJ physiotherapy, benefiting from our expertise in this field.
Contact Us For Help Treating Jaw Pain and Face Pain
Our track record for success in TMJ/jaw pain treatment has made us the preferred physiotherapy provider for many medical specialists, including ENT surgeons, general practitioners, dentists, and dental specialists throughout the greater Brisbane region. Call our office today on 07 3892 7501 or book an appointment online today.
