Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain is a condition that affects the jaw joint and muscles responsible for jaw movement. The TMJ is a hinge joint that connects the jawbone (mandible) to the skull near the temple area (temporal bone). TMJ pain can range from mild to severe and can be acute or chronic. Symptoms of TMJ pain may include pain or tenderness in the jaw joint area, difficulty or discomfort while chewing, clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth, a locking sensation in the jaw, and headaches or earaches.
TMJ pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including trauma or injury to the jaw, teeth grinding or clenching, arthritis, stress, or a misaligned bite.
Here at Hybrid Health Clinic, our physiotherapists and chiropractors can both be helpful in managing TMJ pain.
There are several treatment methods that may be used for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain, depending on the cause and severity of the condition. Here are some common treatment methods:
- Self-care: Resting the jaw, applying heat or ice packs to the affected area, eating soft foods, avoiding gum and other chewy foods, and practicing relaxation techniques can all help to alleviate TMJ pain.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may be recommended to manage pain and inflammation. In some cases, muscle relaxants or prescription pain medications may be prescribed.
- Oral appliances: Custom-fitted mouthguards or splints may be used to help stabilize the jaw and reduce grinding or clenching.
- Physiotherapy & Chiropractic: Exercises to improve jaw mobility, stretching and strengthening exercises for the muscles around the jaw, manual adjustments to the jaw joint and surrounding structures, as well as soft tissue therapy to help alleviate muscle tension and improve overall jaw function and decrease muscle tension may be recommended.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to repair or replace damaged joint structures.
It’s important to note that treatment methods for TMJ pain may vary depending on the individual’s specific needs and the cause and severity of the condition. Our therapists at Hybrid Health Clinic can help determine the best course of treatment.