TMJ Dysfunction Physiotherapy in Edmonton

TMJ—the temporomandibular joint

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TMJ Dysfunction Physiotherapy in Edmonton

TMJ—the temporomandibular joint

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TMJ Dysfunction

At Turning Point Physical Therapy, we can treat the nagging pain from TMJ—the temporomandibular joint. We provide physiotherapy services to those experiencing jaw pain and functional limitations. Our clinic in Edmonton is dedicated to alleviating discomfort and improving the lives of individuals suffering from various TMJ disorders.

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Understanding TMJ Dysfunction

TMJ dysfunction encompasses a range of conditions affecting the joint and the jawbone attached to the skull. Here’s how to determine if you might be experiencing TMJ dysfunction and how we can help:
  • Persistent Jaw Pain: Do you experience ongoing pain in your jaw area that worsens with movement?
  • Sounds: Do you hear clicking, popping, or grinding when opening or closing your mouth?
  • Movement Issues: Are you uncomfortable when chewing, talking, or yawning?
  • Facial Fatigue: Do you feel tiredness or discomfort in your facial muscles, especially after long jaw use?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, it may indicate TMJ dysfunction. It could be beneficial to seek an assessment from a Temporomandibular Joint physiotherapy specialist at Turning Point Physical Therapy Clinic.

TMJ dysfunction can be triggered by a variety of factors, each contributing differently to the condition:

  • Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Unconsciously, while sleeping, teeth grinding will put excessive pressure on the joint, leading to TMJ dysfunction.
  • Jaw Clenching: Frequently related to stress or anxiety, habitual jaw clenching can strain the TMJ and surrounding muscles.
  • Dental Issues: Misalignment of the teeth or poor bite can force the jaw into an unnatural position, aggravating TMJ symptoms.
  • Arthritis: Various forms of arthritis will affect the TMJ, causing pain and stiffness in the joint.
  • Injury: Direct trauma to the jaw or face can cause TMJ dysfunction by damaging the joint or the muscles that control jaw movement.

TMJ dysfunction can manifest in several ways, each requiring a specialized approach. Here are some common conditions:

  1. Myofascial Pain Syndrome – This involves discomfort or pain in the muscles controlling jaw function and associated neck and shoulder muscles.
  2. Internal Derangement of the Joint – Abnormal positioning of the jaw’s disc, dislocation, or injury to the jawbone’s rounded end.
  3. Degenerative Joint Disease – Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis affecting the TMJ, leading to joint breakdown or cartilage damage thus resulting in TMJ joint dysfunction.
  4. Hypermobility – Excessive movement of the jaw beyond its normal range, causing potential pain.
  5. Hypomobility (Trismus) – Limited movement of the jaw due to fusion or scarring of the joint.
  6. Disc Displacement – Movement of the cushioning disc from its normal alignment between the skull and jaw.
  7. Inflammatory Disorders – Conditions like synovitis or capsulitis that result in inflammation and restricted joint movement.

Your path to optimal health begins here!

Ready to prioritize your well-being? Schedule your appointment with Turning Point Physical Therapy now.

Our Comprehensive Approach to TMJ Physiotherapy

At Turning Point Physical Therapy Clinic, our experienced therapists are dedicated to providing holistic care tailored to your needs. Here’s how we utilize various modalities to address TMJ dysfunction:

Manual Therapy

Manual therapy forms the cornerstone of our treatment strategy for Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) dysfunction. Our physiotherapists apply hands-on techniques to relieve muscle tension around the jaw, enhance joint mobility, and alleviate pain directly at the source. This approach helps reduce discomfort, promotes relaxation, and restores normal jaw function.

Exercise Therapy

Customized exercise programs are a critical part of our TMJ treatment regimen. These exercises are tailored to strengthen and stretch the muscles around the TMJ, enhancing joint stability and improving the range of motion. Such targeted exercises facilitate smoother and pain-free jaw movements while reducing pain and inflammation through improved muscle function and reduced joint strain.

Stress Management and Relaxation Techniques

Managing stress and promoting relaxation is crucial for patients with TMJ dysfunction, as stress can exacerbate symptoms like grinding teeth. We teach relaxation techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and also guided imagery to help reduce jaw and body tension. These strategies not only aid in managing physical symptoms but also contribute to overall well-being.

Posture Correction

Improper posture can contribute to TMJ symptoms by placing additional stress on the jaw. We assess and correct our patients' posture to ensure no extra strain is put on the TMJ. Corrective exercises and ergonomic adjustments are implemented to support optimal posture during daily activities, which helps alleviate pressure on the jaw and promotes a more balanced muscular function.

Modalities

Ultrasound Therapy

We employ therapeutic ultrasound to treat deep tissue issues associated with TMJ dysfunction. This modality uses sound waves to penetrate the tissues, promoting healing, reducing inflammation, and soothing pain. Ultrasound therapy also stimulates cellular activity and enhances blood flow, essential for tissue repair and faster recovery.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is another modality we use to address TMJ dysfunction. It utilizes high-energy acoustic waves that target painful areas and promote regeneration and reparative processes in the bones, tendons, and other soft tissues. Shockwave therapy is particularly effective in treating persistent pain and facilitating recovery in chronic cases of TMJ dysfunction.

Dry Needling

This is an effective treatment option for relieving muscle tension and discomfort in regard to TMJ dysfunction. By focusing on particular trigger points in the jaw muscles, this technique helps release built-up tension and knots. Dry needling disrupts pain signals, enhancing muscle function and promoting healing by increasing blood flow and reducing muscle tightness.

Heat and Cold Therapy

Our approach to managing TMJ symptoms includes the strategic use of heat and cold therapy. Heat therapy relaxes tight muscles and enhances blood circulation, relieving pain and reducing stiffness. It is particularly effective in preparing the muscles for more intensive therapy and exercises. 

Conversely, cold therapy minimizes inflammation and numbs the area, providing immediate relief from acute pain. This method is useful to control swelling and alleviate discomfort after an injury or during a flare-up.

At Turning Point Physio, our comprehensive treatment plan for TMJ dysfunction is crafted with a deep understanding of the condition’s complexities. Each aspect of the therapy is designed to work synergistically to provide relief, restore function, and improve the quality of life for our patients.

TMJ Physiotherapy in Edmonton

If you’re experiencing TMJ dysfunction symptoms and seeking relief, Turning Point Physio is here to help. Our experienced physiotherapists specialize in a range of techniques tailored to address TMJ disorders, guaranteeing you receive optimal and personalized treatment.

Contact Turning Point Physio today to schedule your consultation and start your path to recovery from TMJ dysfunction, where expert care meets compassionate service.

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