TMD: What is it?

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder (TMD or TMJD) is a condition that effects the joint of your jaw. It can be painful, cause a loss of function and emotional distress.

David Bajayo, is an experienced physiotherapist with specific post-graduate training in assessing and treating clients with TMJ/TMD.

How common is TMJ/TMD:

10-25% of males and 15-30% of females will, at any given time, suffer from TMJ/TMD. Up to 70% of people have one symptom of TMJ/TMD, yet only 1 in 4 seek treatment. TMJ/TMD is considered to be under-reported which means that there are likely to be more rather than less people out there who suffer this condition.

Symptoms of TMJ/TMD:

• Pain in the jaw
• Earache – normally felt just in front of the ear
• Headache – temple area- but can be felt in the eyes and/or back of the head
• Clicking/clunking of jaw
• Reduced movement (locking) of jaw
• Bruxism (grinding of teeth at night)
• Morning pain in jaw area
• Avoidance of foods (e.g. apples, bread rolls, meats)

Causes of TMJ/TMD:

• Accidents/Injuries
• Orthodontics
• Surgery to the jaw/teeth
• Removal of wisdom teeth

Which part of the TMJ can be injured?”

• Temporo-mandibular disc
• Articular capsule
• Ligaments
• Muscles

What can be done about TMJ/TMD?

• Specific physiotherapy assessment and treatment (that could include massage, mobilisation of the TMJ (both intra and extra-oral techniques), exercises, dry needling, electrotherapy).
• Occlusion splints (see your dentist)
• Using heat/cold packs for pain relief
• Medications to reduce inflammation/muscle spasm/pain (your GP may be involved)
• Modification of postures or habits
• Diet modification
• Surgical intervention

Who can help with TMJ/TMD?

• Physiotherapists with specific training in assessing and treating clients with TMJ/TMD. David Bajayo is a TMJ/TMD physiotherapist who takes a ‘hands-on’ caring and gentle approach to assessing and treating TMJ/TMD.
• David will assess, diagnose and treat your condition.
• David will discuss your condition so that you fully understand what is occurring.
• If any further investigations of your condition are necessary David will inform you.

How long does it take to recover from TMJ/TMD?

Recovery time depends on:
• How long you have had the condition
• Whether you do the exercises prescribed
• Whether you adhere to the advice given
• Your response to the physiotherapy intervention

David Bajayo will guide you through your recovery.

Bookings

Phone 9690 5858 or book online by clicking the button below