In the past few months Chris Young our physiotherapist has seen an increasing number of patients with TMJ dysfunction or jaw pain. Some patients are unable to eat a proper diet due to restriction in opening the mouth, this can be incredibly debilitating and have a significant affect on our emotional health as well as our nutritional status.
Other associated problems with this condition include psychological impacts like anxiety and low mood. TMJ issues can also cause symptoms are varied as tinnitus, dizziness, headaches amongst many others this makes it a difficult condition to diagnose.
Chris uses a Bio-Psycho-Social approach to the management of TMJ issues, this means he combines his hands on physiotherapy techniques with advice on lifestyle factors and exercises. Often Chris will co- manage with local dentistry practices, this is incredibly important as dental conditions can have a large impact on TMJ. Chris’ hands on approach utilises Active Release Therapy (a in depth muscle treatment protocol), Dry needling or acupuncture, as well as manipulative techniques. This combination often can give quick and lasting results when combined with the lifestyle advice.
If you have TMJ issues or jaw pain please ring and make an appointment today.
Evidence supports the use of manual therapy. A systematic review of randomised controlled trials shows that the average amount of sessions required is 9.5. Within four sessions we were able to get great outcomes. Exercise therapy assists with a better longer term outcome and is provided to our patients to maintain the benefits of the manual therapy offered in our clinic.
J Clin Med. 2020 Nov; 9(11): 3404.
Published online 2020 Oct 23. doi: 10.3390/jcm9113404
