TMJ Dysfunction
TMJ Dysfunction is a frequently misdiagnosed and mistreated disorder. It affects the joints and soft tissue of the Temporomandibular Joint in your jaw. The danger of mistreatment is that symptoms will not only get worse, the dysfunction can cause permanent damage. Common symptoms include:
- Pain or discomfort around the ear.
- Headaches coinciding with jaw and neck pain.
- Pain or soreness in the muscles of the face, jaw, neck, and head.
- Abnormal movement of the jaw when opening or closing your mouth.
- Clicking or popping of the jaw when moving your mouth.
- Grating and/or locking of the jaw joint.
- Pain with chewing food, talking, or general movement.
When you come to Balanced Body Physical Therapy, your physical therapist will start with an evaluation to determine the extent of your TMJ Dysfunction. Your evaluation typically includes:
- Assessment of the neck and upper cervical spine
- External and internal assessment of the TMJ
- Special testing regime
Each patient is then set up with an individualized plan to help alleviate pain and improve quality of life. While there are many methods of treating TMJ Dysfunction, there is not an out-of-the-box method. Your treatment will be continually reassessed and refined instead of just sticking to one plan.
Next Steps
Dallen Lovell, PT, is one of few providers in the Salt Lake Valley that treats TMJ Dysfunction. Unlike other providers, we do not require a retainer fee and will allow you to pay on a per visit basis. Schedule an evaluation today.
Patient Education
Patient Education is critical to your success as a patient at Balanced Body Physical Therapy. Our goal is not to schedule endless visits for you; rather, we want to improve your pain and range of motion while teaching you how to manage your condition after therapy. Expect us to provide training brochures and one-on-one time at every appointment to help accomplish this objective.