TMJ Therapy in Bedford & Fort Worth, TX
Head, face, and jaw pain can seriously impact one’s quality of life. Fortunately, physical therapists at Barkman & Smith Physical Therapy can prescribe treatment that assists with pain relief from many of the factors causing craniofacial pain and temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ). These factors include stress, clenching or grinding of teeth, poor bite, trauma, arthritis, congenital issues, and postural abnormalities.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder is a disorder of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jawbone to the skull. This joint controls jaw movement and helps you speak and eat. However, when you have a disorder in this joint, it can lead to excruciating pain.
Arthritis, jaw injury, and improper alignment are common causes of this disorder. You are also at risk if you grind or clench your teeth or have connective tissue diseases.
What Are The Symptoms Of TMJ Disorder?
The primary symptom of TMJ disorder is pain around your jaw. You may also experience;
- Difficulty speaking
- Facial pain, especially in and around your ear
- Inability to open or close your mouth
- Difficulty chewing
- Pain or tenderness in your jaw
- Clicking or grating sounds in the jaw joints
- Facial numbness
- Neck or throat pain
How Can TMJ Therapy, Fort Worth, TX, Help?
When you visit a clinic for TMJ therapy, the physical therapist will first assess your condition and medical history. They will then use your diagnosis to create a treatment plan for you. The plan may consist of one or more of the following treatments, depending on your needs;
Ice and Heat Therapy
Ice and heat can help numb your jaw to relieve pain. Ice helps to reduce inflammation and joint fluid production. Heat, on the other hand, increases circulation and lymphatic flow and reduces muscle spasms around the jaw.
When alternating between ice and heat, use ice alone on an acute injury for the first 24 to 48 hours. Do not apply the ice pack to your face for more than 15 to 20 minutes at a time. You can use ice therapy up to 6 times a day during the first 48 hours.
Also, you can use heat therapy when the swelling minimizes. Again, do not apply heat for more than 15 to 20 minutes at a time. You can also use this treatment 1 to 3 times a day.
Stress Management
Stress management can help you relax your mind and release tension in your jaw muscles. This can help with bruxism and teeth grinding. Your physical therapist will recommend stress management techniques like mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing.
Joint Mobilization
Joint mobilization involves the application of gentle forces to your joint to increase your mobility and restore normal movement.
Therapeutic Exercises
Your physical therapist will teach you specific exercises to relieve TMJ pain. These exercises are easy to do, and doing them several times a day can help relieve pain and improve mobility. Some exercises that can help with TMJ pain include chin tucks, resisted mouth opening, and jaw side-to-side slide.
Why Should You Choose Physical Therapy For TMJ in Bedford, TX?
TMJ disorder can affect your daily life and activities. An inability to eat or speak, alongside facial pain, can cause huge discomfort. Therefore, getting treatment from the best is ideal.
Barkman & Smith Physical Therapy has experienced therapists who will assess your condition and prescribe appropriate treatment for you. Our physical therapists work with patients to reduce contributing factors, reduce inflammation, and promote the repair of injured tissues. We will follow a customized treatment plan and make changes when necessary to help you heal properly.
FAQs
What Is Physical Therapy For TMJ?
Physical therapy for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction into soft tissue mobilization, electrical stimulation, therapeutic exercises, and stress management. Your physical therapist will also educate you about proper posture, tongue-resting position, and preventing future aggravation.
How Much Is TMJ Treatment?
The cost of TMJ treatment varies depending on the severity of your condition and the treatment your physical therapist prescribes.
How Long Does TMJ Treatment Take?
TMJ treatment may take a few weeks to several months. The duration will depend on the severity of your condition, your treatment plan, and your overall health.
Get in touch with us to schedule an appointment today!
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