TMJ Physiotherapy in Fernie BC
Are you struggling with jaw pain? Visit Ridgeline Physio, where our team can help assess and treat your TMJ pain. Our goal is to make the path to recovery clear and simple. We deliver evidence based treatment, as well as the tools and knowledge for success long-term.
TMJ Physio in Fernie BC
The goal of physiotherapy for the TMJ is to reduce pain, improve jaw mobility and restore normal function to the jaw. At Ridgeline Physio, we use a combination of three modalities to treat your jaw pain.
Education
Manual Therapy
Exercise Therapy
What is the Temporomandibular Joint?
The TMJ is the joint that connects the mandible (lower jaw bone) to the skull. The joint is located just in front of the ear on each side of the head. Inside the joint, there is a disc of cartilage that acts as a cushion and allows for smooth movement of the jaw. Normally, when you open your mouth the mandible and the disc move forward together, and when you close your mouth they move backward together. This action is controlled by a group of muscles, including the masseter, temporalis, and lateral and medial pterygoid muscles. These muscles work together to move the jaw in various directions.
What Are Temporomandibular Joint Disorders?
Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMDs) are a group of issues that affect the TMJ joint, the muscles that move the jaw, and/or the other structures around the jaw. Depending on the person and their symptoms, there are different types of issues that can affect the jaw.
Issues with the disc often cause clicking on opening or closing of the jaw.
If the muscles that move the jaw are too tight, they can cause pain, headaches and jaw clicking. In extreme cases, they can limit the opening of the jaw and make it difficult to eat, talk, or yawn.
Age-related changes in the joint can cause discomfort and changes in motion.
Hypermobility in the joint can cause sensitivity and pain in the jaw.
Your TMJ physical therapist will work with you to determine the cause, as well as a treatment plan to help you get back to your normal activities!
Learn more about TMJ Physiotherapy on our Blog!
