TMD is a syndrome involving varying degrees of pain and/or malfunctioning of one or both temporo-mandibular (jaw) joints. Usually occurs between 20 – 40 years old and is seen more often in women.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
clicking/popping of joints
misalignment of joint
spontaneous dislocation/subluxation
tenderness of jaw muscles
limited range of motion
dull, aching pain in front of ear
headaches
hypermobility of T.M.J.
lower jaw shifts when chewing
increased pain and/or headaches in the morning

CAUSES
TMD can be caused by posture in which head juts forward/weak neck extensor muscles in back of neck
misalignment of the joint due to bite or denture problems
misalignment of the upper cervical (neck) vertebrae or bones of skull
injury (e.g. whiplash)
nerve or circulatory impairment
improper tracking of T.M.J. disc
muscle tension/clenching
bruxism/grinding
arthritis
fibromyalgia

LEGGE HEALTH CLINIC TREATMENT
The initial TMD treatment involves a thorough assessment of the patient’s head, neck, and face. The patient’s history, lifestyle and tension habits are also reviewed. Treatment involves releasing trigger points and eliminating muscle spasms to restore optimal function of the affected joints. Following assessment of the ligaments and the articular disc, mobilization techniques may be used to correct the bite and increase range of motion. Attention to the cranial and facial bones, and the cervical spine is also indicated, since proper functioning of these areas is crucial for proper mechanics and functioning of the T.M.J. Acupuncture, Laser Therapy, Craniosacral Therapy, Intra-oral massage and Muscle Energy Technique (MET) are all affective treatment that we can provide for this condition.

DENTAL PRACTITIONERS
Your dental practitioner may suggest a dental apperatus to decrease clenching and grinding of the teeth. It may also reduce muscle tension while you are wearing it.

THINGS TO AVOID
opening your mouth wide
yawning
prolonged gum chewing
habitual protrusion of lower jaw
clenching your jaw
grinding your teeth

Learn more at Mayo Clinic and Wikipedia.