Treatment Information
Temporomandibular Dysfunction (TMD)
Struggling with Jaw Pain? Our Physiotherapy Experts Can Help!
Temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) refers to a range of disorders that affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)—the hinge connecting your jawbone to your skull—and the surrounding muscles.
Two key muscles often involved in TMD are: Masseter and Temporalis
These muscles play crucial roles in jaw movement and function, but when they become overworked or imbalanced, they can contribute to persistent jaw pain, stiffness, and discomfort.
Laura Moore, Physiotherapist:
Laura is a Senior Chartered Physiotherapist.
Laura qualified from the University of Brighton in 2008. Initially working for the NHS in all core areas before deciding to move to the Spire Healthcare Group and specialising in MSK conditions. Whilst at Spire she developed a keen interest with breast cancer patients and pre and post operative rehabilitation.
In 2010 she trained in Acupuncture which for some conditions is a popular adjunct to her physiotherapy treatment.
More recently Laura has decided to settle closer to home to work and concentrate on her work/life balance. Laura has a vested interest in her patients, providing quality treatment and education to improve and manage conditions.
Laura has a keen interest in running and is linked with a local running club for her own wellbeing and fitness goals.
Conditions:
Temporomandibular Dysfunction (TMD) refers to a group of conditions that affect the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), jaw muscles, and nerves controlling jaw movement. The main conditions associated with TMD include:
1. Muscle Disorders (Myofascial Pain)
- The most common form of TMD.
- Involves pain and discomfort in the jaw, face, and neck muscles due to overuse, tension, or strain.
- Can be triggered by teeth grinding (bruxism), clenching, or stress.
2. Joint Disorders (Internal Derangement of the TMJ)
- Disc Displacement with Reduction: The cartilage disc inside the TMJ moves out of place, causing clicking or popping sounds when opening/closing the mouth.
- Disc Displacement without Reduction: The disc is displaced and does not return to its normal position, leading to limited jaw movement or “locking” of the jaw.
- Joint hypermobility: Excessive movement of the TMJ, sometimes leading to dislocation.
3. Degenerative Joint Diseases (Arthritis)
- Osteoarthritis: Wear and tear of the TMJ cartilage, leading to pain and stiffness.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune condition that causes inflammation and joint destruction.
- Other inflammatory conditions, such as psoriatic arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis, can also affect the TMJ.
Laura Moore blog
Our frequently asked questions about Temporomandibular Dysfunction (TMD)?
TMD refers to a group of conditions affecting the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), jaw muscles, and nerves. It can cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles controlling jaw movement.
Common symptoms include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Pain in the neck and shoulders
- Headaches
- Limited ability to open the mouth wide
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw joint
- Locking of the jaw
The exact cause of TMD is often unclear but can be due to a combination of factors such as jaw injury, arthritis, teeth grinding (bruxism), stress, and misalignment of the jaw or teeth.
Treatment can vary depending on the severity of the condition but often includes:
- Pain relief medications (NSAIDs, muscle relaxants)
- Physical therapy
- Oral splints or mouth guards
- Stress management techniques
- Dental treatments to correct bite alignment
- In severe cases, surgical interventions
Yes, lifestyle changes can significantly help. These include:
- Eating soft foods to avoid overuse of jaw muscles
- Avoiding extreme jaw movements (e.g., wide yawning, chewing gum)
- Applying heat or cold packs to the jaw area
- Practicing relaxation techniques to reduce stress and muscle tension
Yes, gentle jaw exercises and stretches can help improve jaw mobility and reduce pain. These should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional to avoid aggravating the condition.
Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination by a healthcare provider, patient history, and may include imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to view the jaw and TMJ.
