Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJD) at Shaw Physical Therapy in Cardston, AB

The Temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are located just in front of each ear. The TMJ has several muscular connections to the neck such that it is often considered the first neck joint. Due to this relationship, the TMJ can be heavily influenced by poor posture and other neck, back and shoulder issues.

TMJ dysfunction is extremely common and results in a variety of symptoms, including pain, tenderness, stiffness, and clicking of the TMJ. It can also contribute to headaches, neck stiffness, and ringing in the ear.

TMJ dysfunction can have a variety of causes, such as

Injuries sustained from an MVA
Trauma to the face, head, or neck
Poor posture
Clenching and grinding of the teeth
Dental work
Poorly managed stress
Inability to relax or sleep

What to Expect with Physiotherapy for TMJ in Cardston, AB

Physiotherapy is a valuable option for the treatment of TMJ dysfunction. The results of a detailed physiotherapy assessment will be used to prepare a specific treatment plan that could include:

Manual therapy to relieve stiffness in the joint(s) and surrounding muscles
IMS to the TMJ and neck muscles
Prescription of stretching and strengthening exercises for the jaw, neck, shoulders, and/or back
Postural correction exercises
Relaxation techniques
Modalities such as electrical stimulation or ultrasound to help with pain control

Shaw Physical Therapy in Cardston, AB, serves patients from Cardston, Leavitt, Beazer, Aetna, Hill Spring, Glenwood, Mountain View, Spring Coulee, Magrath, Del Bonita, Standoff, Fort McLeod, Claresholm, Waterton, Pincher Creek, Lethbridge, and Stirling, AB.