TMJ Disorder and Treatment in Harrogate, TN
Pinnacle Performance Physical Therapy provides specialized treatment for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders in Harrogate, TN. TMJ disorders affect the jaw joint and muscles used for chewing. Common symptoms include jaw pain, popping sounds in the jaw joint, locking of the jaw, and difficulty opening the mouth wide. Left untreated, TMJ disorders can lead to chronic headaches and facial pain.
Our licensed physical therapists have advanced training in the evaluation and TMJ Disorders Treatment Harrogate TN. We take a whole-body approach and identify factors that contribute to jaw dysfunction, such as poor posture, muscle imbalances, and jaw alignment problems.
Customized Treatment Plans
We develop customized treatment plans that incorporate manual therapy techniques, therapeutic exercises, pain relief modalities, posture retraining, and patient education. TMJ Treatment Physical Therapy Harrogate TN is hands-on and may include:
- Joint mobilization - Gentle movements to restore proper motion and alignment of the TMJ.
- Trigger point release - Apply pressure to relieve muscle tightness and spasms.
- Posture correction - Correct head, neck, and shoulder postures.
- Therapeutic exercises - Stretch and strengthen jaw and facial muscles.
- Patient education - Self-care tips for managing symptoms.
We also provide intra-oral appliances that stabilize the jaw joint and re-align the bite. Patients are actively involved in the treatment plan through a home exercise program. Most patients start to experience relief within 4-6 weeks of starting treatment.
How Are We Different?
What sets us apart from other TMJ treatment providers is our whole-body approach to TMJ Treatment in Harrogate TN. We identify and address the root cause factors that contribute to TMJ dysfunction, such as poor posture or improper jaw mechanics. By correcting these factors, we provide longer lasting relief.
We, as a TMJ Specialist in Harrogate TN, also utilize manual therapy techniques that provide both immediate and cumulative benefits. The hands-on techniques help relax the facial muscles and restore proper alignment and mobility of the TMJ. This allows patients to use their jaw properly during function.
FAQs
What is the most common disorder of the TMJ?
The most common TMJ disorder is temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD). This occurs when there is a problem with the proper movement of the joint and surrounding muscles. Common symptoms include jaw pain, limited range of motion, and clicking or popping noises.
What is the best TMJ treatment?
The best treatment approach addresses both the joint dysfunction and the muscular components of TMD. This typically includes Physical Therapy TMJ Treatment techniques, therapeutic exercises, pain relief modalities, proper posture training, and patient education. Custom intraoral appliances may also be used.
Can TMJ be fixed with physical therapy?
Yes, physical therapy is highly effective for treating the muscular and joint components of TMJ disorders. Through hands-on techniques and customized exercises, physical therapists can help restore proper jaw mechanics, relax facial muscles, regain range of motion, and eliminate pain.