The temporomandibular joint is a complex structure containing muscles, tendons, and bones. Injury or disorders to these structures may result in pain in the jaw area.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorders or TMD and are very common in the general population. The majority of cases they are usually caused by muscular pain, which is known as “myofascial pain dysfunction”. However in other instances, the cartilage and ligaments may be at fault, which is referred to by the term “internal derangement” of the TMJ.
These symptoms may also lead to related symptoms, such as disturbed sleep.
The above mechanisms may lead to chronic pain, however, peoples’ experiences of pain are very individualised. Therefore, we use the Biopsychosocial approach to ensure people understand that pain is multifaceted and that there maybe a number of reasons that create barriers to a patient’s recovery.
Treatments vary depending on your individual condition. It also may depend on whether you are suffering from myofascial pain dysfunction, internal derangement of the TMJ or a combination of both.
We use a number of techniques including:
Joint Pain + TMJ problems are usually not serious and do not lead to further problems. Richard has seen many patients with TMJ disorders and understands how painful and how frustrating it can be. Fortunately, the majority of joint pain cases usually respond well to physiotherapy.
Sometimes no obvious cause can be found and if it is necessary we are able to refer you onto a Dental Specialist. Edinburgh Sports + Spinal Physiotherapy are very privileged to have an association with Edinburgh Dental Specialists, and we are able to recommend a referral directly to Edinburgh Dental Specialists.
If you have a TMJ disorder and wish to make an appointment please ask for Richard Worrall who specialises in this area of physiotherapy.
We are here to support you in every step of your recovery.
