Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) is a disorder of the temporomandibular joint that connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull. Common activities like chewing, talking, and yawning are controlled through this joint. Some of the major symptoms of TMJ disorder are pain in the joint, jaw stiffness, locking of the jaw, and severe pain in the muscles that control jaw movement.
The function of the articular disc in the TMJ is to provide cushioning to the joint, allowing smooth movement of the jaw. Thus, TMJ dysfunction may lead to enormous discomfort and functional issues in the jaw.
Causes of TMJ
Multiple factors or the combination of two or more factors cause TMJ disorders. Some of the common causes are:
Jaw Injury - Muscles surrounding the jaw can be injured due to severe injury to the jaw or head, resulting in TMJ disorders.
Bruxism - Because of stress or anxiety, teeth grinding or clenching is known as bruxism. As it puts extra pressure on the TMJ, it may lead to pain or dysfunction of the TMJ.
Arthritis - Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis may cause inflammation of the TMJ and lead to slow degeneration in the joint.
Orthodontic Issues - A stressful condition known as malocclusion, which refers to the misalignment of teeth, can cause TMJ.
Muscle Tension - Poor posture, overuse, or strain of the muscles surrounding the TMJ could be one of the most common factors contributing to TMJ disorders.
Structural Abnormalities - The structural abnormalities of the joint or surrounding tissues can cause TMJ problems.
TMJ Symptoms
Some of the common symptoms of TMJ disorders that range from mild to severe are:
Jaw Pain - Persistent or intermittent pain in the jaw is the most common symptom.
Headaches - Frequent headaches, especially around the temples.
Clicking/Popping of the Jaw - Loud clicking or popping sounds of the jaw while opening and closing the mouth.
Limited Jaw Movement - This includes an inability to fully open the mouth. It gives a weird feeling as if the jaw is "stuck.".
Facial Pain - Ache or pain in the areas around the jaw and temple region.
Ear Pain - Though not originating from ears, severe ear pain could be one of the symptoms of TMJ disorder.
Neck and Shoulder Pain - Neck and shoulder muscle pain can also be a symptom of TMJ disorder. Most of the time, it is an extended muscle pain.
TMJ Treatment
TMJ treatment can be provided based on the causes, symptoms, and severity of TMJ disorders. Some of the commonly used treatment options are:
Botox Injections
If the disorder is due to tension of the jaw muscles or bruxism, Botox injection treatment is provided. The application of Botox injections helps in the treatment of TMJ disorders and minimizes the pain. Botox (botulinum toxin) induces partial paralysis of the muscles around the TMJ. This results in the reduction of muscle contractions, leading to pain relief for several months. This treatment may be required again once the pain is experienced again.
Dry Needling
Dry needling is a popular pain-relieving and functional improvement treatment. It involves the insertion of thin needles into certain trigger points in the muscles, providing release in muscle tension. This treatment also helps in reducing the pain considerably. It is often combined with other therapies to achieve better results.
Muscle Manipulation
Muscle manipulation involves the systematic application of pressure and stretching of muscles surrounding the TMJ. This is also known as myofascial release. This treatment, when provided by a trained physical therapist or chiropractor, gives relief of muscle tension, improves blood circulation, and restores normal muscle activities.
Dental Jaw Repositioning Devices
Occlusal splints and mouth guards are dental devices that assist in repositioning the jaw and can help in decreasing the stress on the TMJ. They are customized to the individual’s requirements and can be worn over the teeth to reduce pressure and avoid clenching and grinding of the teeth. They are more effective in patients with bruxism or misalignment issues.
Stretching Exercises
Specific stretching exercises increase jaw mobility, tighten muscles surrounding TMJ, and reduce pain. Light stretching movements of the jaw, jaw opening–closing movements, and some resistance exercises are some of the most used stretching exercises. Depending on the requirement, some exercises may be prescribed by a physical therapist or a health care provider.
Dr. Shea Stevens, TMJ Specialist
Dr. Shea Stevens is a TMJ specialist in Lancaster, PA, and is an expert in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders. He follows an integrated approach to treat TMJ disorder. His proven treatment technique includes advanced diagnostic techniques combined with a variety of treatment options, including those listed above.
Dr. Stevens is known for his customized treatment plans that he crafts as per the individual needs of each patient. He is a keen learner and ensures to be abreast with the ongoing developments to provide the best of the best treatment to his patients.
Though TMJ disorders can affect the quality of life, once diagnosed and treated appropriately, they give immense relief to the patient. A precise diagnosis is a must for appropriate and correct treatment. Certain most-used treatments include Botox injections, dry needling, muscle manipulation, dental jaw repositioning devices, and targeted stretches.
Dr. Shea Stevens can provide effective treatment to patients seeking relief from TMJ disorder. He has specialized training in TMJ disorders and can provide effective TMJ disorder treatment. Dr. Steven’s experience and knowledge can help patients get relief from pain due to TMJ disorder, dysfunction of TMJ, or any other problems due to TMJ disorder with a successful treatment and live a quality life.
