Do you ever wake up with facial pain? Does your jaw seem to lock or click at the most inconvenient times? If this sounds familiar, you may be dealing with a disorder known as TMD or commonly known as TMJ. Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is a prevalent condition that hinders the natural function of the jaw. November is TMJ Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to discuss what can happen if you leave this condition untreated. At Park Physical Therapy, we provide comprehensive treatment to help patients overcome this uncomfortable disorder. Continue reading to learn more.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint connects the jaw to the rest of the skull. When this area becomes inflamed and irritated, the pain can be excruciating. Many things can cause TMJ disorder, such as teeth grinding and clenching, arthritis, or a jaw injury. The symptoms of TMJ are often overlooked. You may notice a click when you chew your food or yawn, but this symptom can progress into something more uncomfortable. Some of the additional symptoms you can experience with TMJ include:
- Jaw pain.
- Tightness in the face.
- Dizziness.
- Tinnitus.
- Lockjaw.
- Pain when chewing or yawning.
The TMJ has a critical job, so it can make even the simplest activities painful when you experience pain and discomfort in this area. If you suspect something is wrong with your jaw, it’s best to consult with a physical therapist to help you recover.
What Happens If You Leave TMJ Untreated?
Leaving your TMJ untreated can lead to a host of different problems, such as chronic pain and limited jaw mobility and function. The aching can make it difficult for you to speak and eat. It is essential that you find an effective treatment for this disorder as soon as possible. Physical therapy can help TMJ in many ways. For non-serious cases, our therapists may utilize manual therapy techniques and stretching exercises that will reduce your jaw’s tension and stiffness. The stretching will also likely improve joint mobility and function, giving your jaw the freedom to move as it should, without pain. We can also show you how to correct your posture since sitting with your head in a forward position can strain the muscles under your chin and the TMJ. For more severe cases, our team may use special treatments to relieve your pain. Ultrasound therapy applies deep heat to the afflicted area to improve jaw mobility and soreness. We may also apply transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation to the jaw to help relax facial tissues and joints. No matter the severity of your TMJ, you should not leave it untreated for too long.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with TMJ disorder, our team at Park Physical Therapy can help! We’ll devise a custom treatment plan to address your jaw pain and help you restore function. Contact us to schedule an appointment today!
