TMJ Dysfunction

Orthopedic Physical Therapy

TMJ Dysfunction

Everyone has TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint)- actually, everyone has 2 TMJs. The problem comes into question when you have TMJ dysfunction.

The TMJ is the joint directly in front of your ears. It is made up of the temporal bone of your skull and the mandible of your jaw. Pain and/or clicking of this joint is caused by inappropriate mechanics of the TMJ and can have many different causes. The key to resolving your pain and/or clicking is to find and treat the root cause of the problem, in addition to your symptoms.

Symptoms May Include (not limited to)

Ear Pain
Pain/Clicking in the jaw with opening and/or closing (as in chewing or yawning)
Locking of the jaw
Tenderness of the muscles around the cheek and above your ear
Headaches

Causes May Include

Poor posture
Clenching or grinding of teetch (both during the day or at night)
Biting nails, inside of cheeks or lips
Neck, shoulder or low back problems
Recent trip to the dentist or significant amount of dental work
Cold weather (constant shrug of shoulders

The list could go on and each individual has their own personal habits and story. Therefore, it is most important to have a full physical therapy evaluation in order to find the actual cause of dysfunction.

We at C.A.R.E. employ manual therpay techniques as well as a tailored functional exercise program to ensure not only short term relief of pain, but long term results including prevention of other injuries.

2533 N. Southport Ave
Chicago IL 60614
(773) 472-2731
info@carephysicaltherapy.com