Does your jaw hurt when you bite, do you hear a popping sound when you open your mouth, or do you suffer from frequent headaches? You may be surprised to learn that the cause may not be just in the jaw itself.
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the lower jaw to the skull and is involved in everyday activities such as speaking, biting, or chewing. It is also closely connected to the muscles of the face, the cervical spine, and the area around the ears. This is why its disorders often do not only manifest as jaw pain.
Problems with the TMJ can be associated with headaches, earaches, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), facial tension, or neck pain. Some people experience limited mouth opening, while others notice popping, clicking, or uncomfortable pressure in the joint area.
Why do problems arise?
One of the most common causes is long-term overuse of the chewing muscles. This can occur, for example, when clenching the jaw during the day, grinding teeth in sleep (bruxism), frequent chewing or after more demanding dental procedures. Changes in the cervical spine, which affect muscle tension and the position of the jaw joint, can also play a role.
Problems often do not arise suddenly. They usually develop gradually and can spread to other areas of the head and neck over time.
When is it appropriate to see a physiotherapist?
Physiotherapy may be appropriate if you are experiencing:
- jaw or cheek pain
- jaw clicking or popping
- limited mouth opening
- headache or neck pain
- ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- tense and soreness of the chewing muscles
How is temporomandibular joint physiotherapy performed?
At SPINEZIU, we look at the problems comprehensively. We do not only address the temporomandibular joint itself, but also the connections that may contribute to the problem.
The examination includes an assessment of the jaw movement, the extent of mouth opening, and any popping or skipping in the joint. The physiotherapist will also examine the chewing muscles, cervical spine, and other structures that may be related to the problems.
Depending on the findings, therapy may include relaxing the overworked muscles, mobilizing the temporomandibular joint, treating the cervical spine, practicing appropriate exercises, and providing recommendations for daily functioning. In some cases, the dry needling technique may also be used.
The goal of therapy is not only to relieve pain, but above all to find and influence the causes that lead to its occurrence.
Do you have problems with your tempromandibular joint?
If you suffer from jaw pain, clicking in the joint, limited mouth opening, headaches or ringing in the ears, physiotherapy may be one of the ways to improve.
Physiotherapy of the temporomandibular joint at SPINEZIO is provided by Mgr. Michaela Horká, who specializes in this issue in her practice.
You can easily make an appointment through our reservation system, the contact form on the website or at the reception.
Author of the article: Mgr. Michaela Horká
Physiotherapist at SPINEZIO
