Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Rehabilitation
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a paired joint connecting the lower jaw to the skull, playing a crucial role in opening the mouth, breathing, speaking, and eating.
Our specialization is in the physiotherapy of the TMJ, one of the most frequently used joints in the body, which significantly influences the entire musculoskeletal system (see also: Does the bite and Jaw Joint affect body alignment?). Symptoms of TMJ dysfunction can include headaches, shoulder and neck pain, clicking in the joint, restricted range of motion in the joint or cervical spine, teeth grinding, migraines, tinnitus, and psychological stress. In the latter case, a psychologist specializing in TMJ issues and stress management can assist with treatment.
How can physiotherapy help you?
A physiotherapist can use manual techniques and exercises during rehabilitation to restore the natural movement of the jaw and the function of the muscles. Manual techniques suitable for TMJ disorders include relieving tension in trigger points within the muscles using pressure massage, applying other relaxation techniques to the muscles, working on fascia and connective tissues through fascial manipulation, mobilizing the TMJ and cervical spine joints, etc. For larger neck muscles, shockwave therapy may be used in selected situations. If the physiotherapist identifies poor posture, particularly a forward head position that overloads the neck muscles and exerts damaging forces on the TMJ, they will teach the client to recognize and strengthen proper body alignment. This improvement will enhance the resting position of the jaw, head, neck, and shoulders during daily activities (walking, sports, or sitting at a computer). The physiotherapist will also teach techniques and exercises that you can use in the future to maintain proper TMJ function and relieve any pain as needed. We always strive to identify and address the underlying causes of pain.
We specialize in non-surgical solutions for TMJ dysfunction. In addition to orthodontics (Svět rovnátek), we collaborate with joint consultation physicians and oral surgery centers across the Czech Republic in treating our clients. Our physiotherapists encounter TMJ issues as frequently as those with back pain in a typical clinic. The experience we gain is incredibly valuable! Because knowledge is not enough; experience truly makes a difference.
