This type of therapy is used to treat dysfunction of the TMJ, which connects the lower jaw with the skull. Problems with the TMJ can cause head and neck pain, resulting in chronic headaches, or pain in the face, ears, or jaw. The jaw can become locked in a position that makes it difficult to open and patients can experience difficulty biting or chewing. TMJ specialists utilize TMJ therapy to focus on the evaluation and treatment of disorders of this joint.
Physical therapy can provide relief for patients when other methods of treating their headaches, like over the counter or prescription medication, do not improve their symptoms. While there is no complete cure for chronic headaches, TMJ specialists can use physical therapy to provide significant relief from symptoms.
TMJ Symptoms
- Chronic headaches
- Throbbing pain at the base of the skull
- Grinding teeth
- Pain from the neck down between the shoulder blades
- Jaw pain and difficulty opening mouth
- Nausea and blurred vision
Did You Know
- 50-70% of the population will have neck pain-associated headaches during their life
- The most beneficial treatment for mechanical neck pain with or without headaches is manipulative interventions combined with exercise
- Headache disorders are among the most common disorders of the nervous system