Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)
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Temporomandibular Disorder
The Temporomandibular Joint
The Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most complicated joints in the human body. Situated just in front of the ear, this joint connects the jaw to the rest of the skull.
This joint and it's complex movements are what enable us to talk, laugh, yawn, eat and breath. Muscles attached to and surrounding the TMJ control it's movement and position.
Within the jaw joint there sits a cartilage disc (plate) separating the jaw from the rest of the skull (SEE IMAGE RIGHT). It is commonly the gradual displacement of this cartilage that leads to conditions as Temporomandibular Disorder.
About Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)
Temporomandibular disorder or TMD for short, is not a specific condition but a complex combination of symptoms. This includes, but is not limited by, pain and dysfunction within the structures involved with mastication (parts in the head that control the movements of chewing and eating).
Symptoms of Temporomandibular Disorder
As TMD is not a specific condition the symptoms vary with each presentation. This condition mainly affects the muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, teeth and connective tissue associated with mastication.
Typical symptoms of TMD include, but are limited to:
- Pain that is poorly localised in and around the jaw/jaw joint; described as an ache, usually intermittent
- Pain/tenderness when pressing the muscles around the TMJ or the muscles involved with mastication
- Pain in the jaw when chewing, clenching the teeth and yawning
- This condition is usually unilateral (only affecting one side of the body), although it can occur bilaterally (both sides)
- Limited jaw range of motion; difficulty with eating, yawning or laughing
- A clicking, clunking or popping sound coming from the jaw upon movement
Causative Factors of TMD
Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) has no clear or direct causes. Instead it is thought to be caused by multiple, poorly understood, factors that combine to bring about the complex symptoms of TMD.
There are 3 main areas contributing to the causative factors:
Predisposing factors that are out of the individual's control; including genetics, hormonal balance and anatomy from birth.
Physical factors that cause irritation and damage to the TMJ; direct physical trauma, dental changes causing an altered bite and para-function (once the jaw starts to move differently it causing addition damage/irritation to certain structures).
Social factors that prolong and maintain the disorder once it has started; stress causing tight muscles and clenching of the jaw, and para-function again.
How can osteopathy help Temporomandibular Disorder?
Research evidence has shown that osteopathic treatment for sufferers with Temporomandibular Disorder experience significantly less pain and increased range of motion in neck movements and jaw opening.
At DW Osteopathy typical treatment for TMD will involve physical manipulation, stretch and massage to the surrounding muscles. Depending on the severity and the patient's wishes this is sometimes accompanied by some dry needling techniques to the area of the jaw and neck. Each patient will be given a unique exercise programme to be performed at home, specifically tailored to suit the individual's needs.
If you are experiencing pain in the jaw, neck, ear or side of the head and believe it is Temporomandibular Disorder then please don't hesitate to give us a call. You will be able to speak to an osteopath over the phone and they will advise you on the best course of action.
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