Definition:
dysfunction of the temporal mandibular joint (jaw): displacement of cartilage
disk
TMJ syndrome refers to dysfunctions of the temporal
mandibular joint capsule.
TMD also includes other
conditions involving the jaw structure and the muscular system such as occlusal
interferences, muscular disorders, neurological disorders and biochemical
imbalances. Other terms for this condition include myofascial pain and
dysfunction, craniomandibular dysfunction, and masticatory muscle pain.
Causes: jaw misalignment,
cranial misalignment, vertebral misalignment, scoliosis, tooth grinding,
stress, bad posture, hypoglycemia (tooth grinding and clenching more prevalent),
whiplash, poor dental work, trauma, poor diets causing excessive inflammation
Causative Factors of TMJ Dysfunction from
Judith Delany's article
Some of the most common factors include:
Intrajoint dysfunction - adhesions,
scarring, displacement
or destruction of disc(s), arthrosis, deposition of calcium
Musculoskeletal - hypertonic muscles,
referred pain from
trigger points, postural distortions, skeletal misalignments
Occlusal factors - loss of vertical dimension, premature
contacts, other malocclusal conditions
Biochemical - hormonal, neurostimulants,
allergies/food
sensitivities (both known and hidden), chemical exposures,
drugs (prescription, OTC, recreational), mineral and
vitamin deficiencies, biochemical imbalances or toxicity
Signs/Symptoms: jaw
pain, muscle spasms around joint, clicking, tooth grinding, popping, pain,
headaches, neck and shoulder pain, tinnitus
, tooth aches, ear pain without infection, hearing changes, dizziness, sinus
pain, jaw clenching, reduced range of motion in opening the jaw, pain with
or without opening the jaw, difficulty biting or chewing, poor posture,
scoliosis
Diagnosis : Often involves
exams and testing by dentists, orthopedic doctors or other health care
professionals using x-rays, mri's, muscle palpation and range of motion
measurements along with examination of the alignment of the jaw and teeth.
Indications:Massage
to realign problem areas, especially, temporalis, masseter, pterygoids,
cranial realignment, cervical realignment. Intra oral work is usually
needed but may be out of the scope of practice in your state.
Contraindications:
none: Refer to appropriate health care practitioner; Surgery can be avoided.
Massage Techniques:
Self Massage
Pull on the
little tab on your the middle of your ear and gently move your jaw side to side
and move in it little circles.
Put two pieces of
cotton in your mouth while just sitting at home or at your desk to keep the
mouth open slightly taking the pressure off your jaw to help it relax
Other Methods of Treatment : Physical therapy,
chiropractic, acupuncture
Masseter Muscle - Great article on the masseter and jaw problems from
www.massagetherapypractice.com
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massage business using a website, networking (word of mouth), living
ethics and supervision!
