Temporomandibular joint (TMJ)
What is the TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint of the jaw, located just in front of the ear. It is composed of the mandible that attaches on each side of the skull to the temporal bones. It is held in place by a joint capsule, ligaments and several muscle attachments. The TMJ also includes a fibrocartilaginous articular disc, which can be similar to a meniscus, and the cranial nerves that innervate all the structures in the region. These structures are prone to become problematic in relation to various factors such as poor:
- posture
- impact to the head or jaw
- orthodontic treatments
- clenching or grinding of the teeth, and many others.
It can also be affected by a fractured collarbone or other shoulder problems since many muscles connect these areas of the body. TMJ can also be involved when a person has headaches or neck pain.
Reasons for consultation
- Muscle or joint pain in the jaw
- Problems with mandibular dynamics (creaking, subluxation or “jaw dropping”)
- Limitations or blocking when opening the mouth
- Bruxism (teeth grinding)
- Numbness in the jaw area
- Neck pain
- Headaches, migraines
Osteopathy and TMJ
First of all, being an expert in the cranial region, osteopathy is a preferred approach for jaw problems. Using a global approach, the osteopath is equipped with tools to restore mobility to the cranium and TMJ in addition to the adjacent regions that directly or indirectly affect the patient’s discomfort or pain. He is also able to treat the various muscular tensions in order to restore balance in the jaw area.
In addition, posture evaluation is an important aspect of TMJ evaluation and treatment. Indeed, via the fascial system of the body, the position and mobility of the skull and mandible can influence posture, and vice versa.
Finally, the osteopath must recognize the limits of his or her approach and may, in some cases, refer the patient to another health care worker such as a dentist, physician or physiotherapist. Working together with these different professionals may be the optimal solution to maximize the patient’s function and eliminate any TMJ-related pain.