Jaw joint

Craniomandibular physiotherapy is a specialized form of physiotherapy that focuses on problems with the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint or TMJ) and the surrounding structures. This therapy helps with complaints such as:

• Jaw pain or blockages
• Popping or cracking sounds when opening/closing the mouth
• Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching)
• Headache or facial pain related to jaw tension
• Earache or feeling of pressure without any obvious cause
• Dizziness or neck pain related to jaw problems

The therapy is suitable for people with TMJ dysfunction, orthodontic problems, stress-related jaw tension and people recovering from jaw surgery.

The treatment consists of mobilizations, muscle relaxation techniques, posture corrections and sometimes jaw exercises.

Craniomandibular physiotherapy is often recommended before a dentist places a mouth bite (occlusal splint or bite elevation) . This is because:

• Muscle and joint balance must first be restored to allow for correct bite determination
• Jaw tension or incorrect position can otherwise give a distorted picture when fitting the splint.
• Overload of the chewing muscles can be reduced, which prevents complaints such as headaches or pain in the jaw joint.

Many dentists therefore first refer to a physiotherapist with experience in TMJ problems , so that the treatment is optimally tailored.

For this type of treatment, make an appointment with our physiotherapist Lynn