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TMJ Dysfunction and Jaw pain

What is the TMJ?

The TMJ (Temporomandibular Joints) are located either side of the jaw and connects the jaw to the skull. They are the hardest working joints in the body.

They are surrounded by many muscles, four of which are the main muscles of mastication (chewing) and, along with the TMJ, help the jaw to work effectively with actions of protrusion, retraction, elevation and depression .

TMJ Joint

What is TMJ Dysfunction?

Tmj Dysfunction (TMJD) is where these joints become out of place and can cause Clicking sounds, popping or grinding, Pain and discomfort, muscle spasms, Limited movements of the jaw and locking of the jaw
 

What can cause TMJ Dysfunction?

TMJD  can be caused by a wide number of things, such as:
-Injury to the jaw or facial area
-Whiplash
-Blows to the head
-Arthritis in the joint itself
-Bruxism (clenching/grinding of the jaw)
-Forward head posture
-Movement of the disc or cushion in the joint
-Stress
-Suppression of emotions or repression of anger/rage

What are the symptoms of TMJD?

Tmjd has a wide range of symptoms so can sometimes be hard to diagnose. They can be as follows:

-Headaches
-Clenching or grinding of the teeth (Bruxism)
-Earache 
-ringing of the ears (Tinnitus)
-Neck, shoulder or back pain
-Clicking/popping sensations upon opening and closing the jaw
-Dizziness & nausea
-Pain behind the eyes
-Dull ache in the facial area

 

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