The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is a complex hinge-type joint that performs both a gliding and rotational movement to assist with mouth opening, closing and lateral movements. It is the most frequently used joint in the body engaging in daily activities such as talking, eating, yawning, coughing, and swallowing. Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) are conditions that affect the jaw joints and present in three main categories: myofascial pain (muscle), internal derangement (injury, trauma), and degenerative joint disease.
Due to the joint’s proximity to the ears, TMD can often present with ear symptoms such as; ear fullness, pain, pressure or ringing (tinnitus).
Symptoms in addition to the ear include:
There are many causes for TMD: muscle tension (bruxism, clenching, grinding), injury to the area, sustaining positions for procedures, joint issues (osteoarthritis), stress and anxiety as well as accumulation daily habits.
To determine the best treatment for TMD a comprehensive initial assessment should be performed. Components of the examination will include a review of the individual’s symptoms, discussion of daily activities and habits, evaluation of jaw and neck movement, postural assessment, as well as hands on palpation of the joint and muscles.
Based on the assessment findings, a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs will be provided. Treatment can include a combination of manual therapy, soft tissue release, dry needling, exercise, and education on habitual changes and lifestyle adjustments. Adherence to the exercise program and changes are important to the success of treatment and improvement in symptoms. Due to the crucial role our TMJ plays in our everyday lives, symptoms improvement is often seen over 2 weeks to 3 months.
At Kingston Ear InstituteTM, we take pride in our patient-centered, evidence-based approach to rehabilitation and take pleasure and pride in our patients’ progress and realization of their goals.
The content provided on this website is for informational or educational purposes only, and does not substitute professional medical advice or consultations with healthcare professionals. This website and its described services do not constitute the practice of any medical, surgical, audiological, physiotherapy, nursing, or other professional health care advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always talk to your health care provider for investigations, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment, including your particular medical needs. Please see your healthcare provider if you have any questions about the content provided on this website.
