TMJ CONSULTATION IN LISBON
Do you feel jaw pain, clicking sounds when opening your mouth, difficulty chewing or even frequent headaches? These may be signs of a TMJ disorder — temporomandibular joint dysfunction, the joint responsible for mouth opening and closing movements.
Temporomandibular joint dysfunction is usually multifactorial, meaning there can be more than one cause behind the condition. TMJ issues can vary in severity, from self-limiting disorders to chronic conditions that require ongoing treatment.
WHAT IS THE TMJ?
The TMJ (temporomandibular joint) is the joint that connects the jaw to the skull. It’s essential for functions such as opening and closing the mouth, speaking, chewing and yawning. As one of the most used joints in the body, any dysfunction can cause significant discomfort.
Some of the causes of temporomandibular joint disorders include bruxism (teeth grinding), poor dental occlusion, trauma, stress, muscle tension, arthritis, improper chewing, postural changes, disc displacement, genetics, among others.
When is the
TMJ consultation recommended?
A specialised physiotherapy assessment of the TMJ is recommended for people experiencing symptoms such as:
- Jaw, facial or neck (cervical) pain
- Clicking or popping when opening or closing the mouth
- Difficulty or limitation when opening the mouth
- Bruxism (teeth grinding)
- Tension or muscle pain in the neck area
- Headaches or migraines
- Feeling of blocked ears or unexplained ringing (tinnitus)
HOW CAN PHYSIOTHERAPY
HELP?
Specialised TMJ physiotherapy, combined with Global Postural Reeducation, aims to restore muscular and joint balance in the jaw, relieving pain and improving function. The treatment may include:
- Manual techniques for muscle relaxation and lengthening
- Joint mobilisation
- Therapeutic exercises to retrain jaw movements
- Postural correction
- Postural guidance and healthy oral habits
- Support in managing factors such as stress and bruxism
Each case is unique, and that’s why at OSTEOFISIO lab, the TMJ consultation is carried out by qualified professionals who perform a detailed assessment and create a personalised treatment plan for each patient.
There may also be a need for follow-up with a dentist, orthodontist or medical specialist in TMJ disorders (who will monitor the condition and may suggest oral devices, medication or additional diagnostic exams).
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