TEMPOROMANDIBULAR DISORDER (TMD)

Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) is a broad term which includes disorders within the temporomandibular joint.

Causes may be intra-articular or extra-articular:

• Intra-articular:

1. 1. Inflammation of the TMJ due to trauma e.g. blow to the chin/jaw or whiplash injury
   2. Displacement of the disc
   3. Degenerative arthritis
   4. Hypermobility that results in excessive anterior movement of the jaw by extreme opening of the mouth

• Extra-articular:

1. 1. Muscle spasm commonly in masseter, temporalis and pterygoid muscles
   2. Cervical postural disorders e.g. forward head posture
   3. Temporal tendinopathy caused by excessive contraction of the temporalis muscle as a result of teeth grinding
   4. Fractures of the mandible

Physiotherapy Treatment

• Soft tissue release to relieve pain, swelling and muscle spasm
• Joint mobilisation to restore jaw movement and alignment
• Postural correction exercises
• Jaw stabilisation exercise

Here are 3 home remedies to try!

1.Masseter Release:

• • Sit in a comfortable position with your back straight and shoulders relaxed.
  • Place your fingers on the outer edges of your jaw near your temples.
  • Apply gentle pressure and slowly slide your fingers down towards your jaw joint.
  • As you reach the jaw joint, apply a circular massaging motion with your fingers.
  • Continue massaging the area for about 1-2 minutes, focusing on any tight or tender spots.
  • Relax and repeat this massage technique daily or as needed to alleviate tension in the jaw muscles.

2.Chin Retractions:

• • Sit in a comfortable position with your back straight and shoulders relaxed.
  • Gently tuck your chin in towards your neck without tilting your head.
  • Hold this position for about 5-10 seconds.
  • Slowly release and return your chin to the starting position.
  • Repeat this exercise 5-10 times, focusing on maintaining proper alignment and control throughout the movement.

3.Jaw Protractions:

• • Sit in a comfortable position with your back straight and shoulders relaxed.
  • Move your lower jaw forward, pushing it slightly past your upper jaw.
  • Hold this position for about 5-10 seconds.
  • Slowly release and bring your jaw back to the starting position.
  • Repeat this exercise 5-10 times, focusing on controlled movement and maintaining proper alignment.

Remember to start these exercises gradually and increase the intensity or duration as tolerated. If you experience any pain or discomfort, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional or a physical therapist who can provide personalized guidance for your condition.

• Source
  Mark, BM; Kessler, CS, All Pain is not the Same, A unique Perspective on Headaches, TMJ Disorders and Facial Pain, JimSam Inc., 2010.
  <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/woman-sick-with-toothache-hand-holding-cheek_10314804.htm#query=jaw%20pain&position=1&from_view=keyword&track=ais”>Image by jcomp</a> on Freepik
  https://www.physio-pedia.com/Temporomandibular_Disorders?utm_source=physiopedia&utm_medium=search&utm_campaign=ongoing_internal

Prepared by

Jamie Hong

Your Physio Subang