Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD or TMJ)

About Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD)

Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD) describes the problems that may occur at the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This joint is where your jaw bone attaches to the skull. It is a complex joint that has to slide forward and drop down in order for your jaw to open. It moves thousands of times a day with talking, eating and any time you move your jaw. The joint has a disc or fluid filled sac within it and has many ligaments and muscles that coordinate movements.

The TMJ relies heavily on proper posture and alignment to function well. The posture and positioning of the neck and head play a large role in the pulls of muscles on the TMJ. Abnormal muscle pulls can lead to altered movement of the TMJ and thus pain.

How physical therapy helps

Physical therapy helps TMJ suffers in a number of ways. Our therapists work with you to determine the exact mechanisms of your TMJ and where you have poor alignment of the TMJ, neck and head. By improving posture, movement and function, the normal muscle balance and movement of the TMJ can be restored. Call us today to discover how we can help relieve your pain quickly.

Conditions We Treat

Northern & BetterCare Physical Therapy helps people of all ages with many different conditions. We typically serve people throughout the North Country, but have seen people from all over, including from out of state and Canada, for our expert services. Please see the diagram attached on the sidebar for information on common conditions we treat and how physical therapy can help you.

Questions? Contact our offices today and learn how we can help you start living pain free!