What is the TMJ?

The jaw is also known as the TMJ or Temporomandibular Joint. It can be painful as the result of injury, inflammatory disease, poor postures and habits or growth disorders.

The TMJ is made up of several parts: the lower jaw (or mandible) and the socket (or temporal bone). In between the mandible and the socket is a disc. The disc allows the joint to glide smoothly on opening and closing. The joint is also held in place by muscles and ligaments.

What are the signs and symptoms of TMJ dysfunction?

Pain in the jaw joints and facial muscles

Clicking, grinding or locking of the jaw

Headaches & Dizziness

Difficulty opening or closing the mouth comfortably

Pain on talking, chewing (especially hard food) & yawning

Ear pain, ringing in the ears (tinnitus) & hearing loss

What are the aims of Physiotherapy treatment?

Relief pain

Minimize stiffness

Restore normal function and mobility

DO:

Exercise your jaw regularly on your physiotherapist’s advice.

Be aware when you are clenching or grinding your teeth.

Change to a soft food diet and avoid hard and chewy foods.

Cut tough food into small pieces.

Reference: http://www.pat.nhs.uk/gps-and-partners/Joint%20Pain%20Leaflet.pdf