What is the TMJ and How is TMD Treated?
The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull bone and allows mouth opening and closing motions which enables functions such as yawning, chewing and speaking. Whenever the TMJ malfunctions it leads to Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD). TMD may arise due to a variety of factors. Some of the most common include trauma or injury, misaligned teeth, arthritis, joint dislocation, stress and poor lifestyle habits such as clenching and teeth grinding.
TMJ disorders often go undiagnosed and untreated despite that they impact millions of individuals worldwide and can lead to a range of discomforts, impacting daily activities and overall quality of life.
At Shirley Ryan AbilityLab at Silver Cross Hospital, we aim to help you understand the symptoms and explore effective treatment options.
Some symptoms of TMD may include:
- Facial pain, especially in the jaw area
- Headaches, especially in the temporal area
- Jaw locking or limited jaw motion
- Pain or discomfort with chewing
- Neck and Shoulder pain
- Joint sounds, such as clicking or popping
- or Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)
Treatment approaches vary and can include medications, self-care measures, oral devices such as bite guards, Physical Therapy and in rare or severe cases, surgery. If you’re experiencing TMJ-related discomfort, we recommend you talk to your physician to guide you with the best treatment approach.
A tailored physical therapy program can help strengthen the jaw and improve its range of motion. Techniques may include manual therapy, exercises to enhance jaw function, and education on posture and ergonomics.
Our focus is to help you regain comfort and improve your quality of life. To schedule an Outpatient Physical Therapy appointment, a physician's order is required. Call us at 815-300-7110 to schedule. The order may be faxed to the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab at Silver Cross Hospital Outpatient Center at 815-300-3831.
