Signs of TMJ Disorder:
Many people with TMJ dysfunction don’t even know they have it. You don’t always have to have TMJ pain to have dysfunction. Some of the most common symptoms associated with TMJ dysfunction are: pain or popping in the ears, “gravel-like” sounds in the ears, facial pain, headaches (especially those who wake with headaches), chronic neck strain/ pain.
Some symptoms that are not commonly known to be associated with TMJ dysfunction: Morton’s foot, anxiety, feeling chronically over-stressed and tired when awake, difficulty getting to sleep and staying asleep, difficulty “feeling grounded”.
How is it Treated?
At North End Physical Therapy, a comprehensive examination can be completed to help determine the source of TMJ dysfunction. Your therapist will likely perform gentle soft tissue release inside your mouth, specifically to the muscles that carry chronic tension. Often you will not be aware of the tension you carry until it is released. Intra-oral release can be quite relaxing, and it is not uncommon for the patient to fall asleep during the treatment.
Your therapist will also likely make a recommendation for a TMJ night guard or splint to wear in conjunction with your treatment. Mouth/ jaw exercises will also likely be given to you in order to help maintain progress made during each visit.
You will be surprised at how relaxing the treatment is!