Treating TMD with physical therapy is an effective method to relieve pain and discomfort. When you come to Advanced Care Physical Therapy for your physical therapy evaluation and treatment, you can expect your therapist to analyze your jaw mobility and release muscle tension in the head and neck region. Our physical therapy team is Mariano Rocabado Trained and will perform a comprehensive evaluation of your TMD, neck, thoracic spine and shoulder girdle to determine the structures causing TMJ symptoms. Our patients are receiving immediate relief with physical therapy. Here is what they are saying:
“My pain is under control thanks to Ryan. I only regret I didn’t come see him earlier. Nick, Williamsville
“I didn’t know physical therapy could help me with my jaw pain but after only a few visits, I was pain-free. Unbelievable! Angie, Niagara Falls
“The team did an amazing job helping with my pain and chronic discomfort and I cant thank them enough” Andrew, Buffalo
Simply stated, the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are the two joints that connect your jaw to your skull. More specifically, they are the joints that slide and rotate in front of each ear, and consist of the mandible (the lower jaw) and the temporal bone (the side and base of the skull). According to the American Dental Association (ADA), the TMJs are among the most complex joints in the body. These joints, along with several muscles, allow the mandible to move up and down, side to side, and forward and back. When the mandible and the joints are properly aligned, smooth muscle actions, such as chewing, talking, yawning, and swallowing, can take place. When these structures (muscles, ligaments, jaw bone, mandible, TMJ) are not aligned, nor synchronized in movement, several problems may occur.
Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are disorders of the jaw muscles, temporomandibular joints, and/or the nerves associated with chronic facial pain. Any problem that prevents the complex system of muscles, bones, and joints from working together in harmony may result in temporomandibular disorder.
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), classifies the categories of TMD by the following criteria:
The following are the most common symptoms of TMD. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
Specific treatment for TMD will be determined by your physician, dentist or physical therapist based on: