Your jaw, also known as the temporomandibular joint, is commonly referred to as TMJ for short.  Temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD), is an umbrella term that refers to jaw pain/problems. The TMJ is located at the base of the skull and in front of the ear.  Symptoms of TMD include, but are not limited to: pain in the jaw, face, teeth or ears, headaches, migraines, bruxism, clicking/locking of the jaw, limited range of motion, malocclusion and many more. 

WHAT CAUSES JAW PAIN (TMD)

Many things can cause TMD.  A dysfunctional breathing pattern is one of them. If you are a chest or mouth breather, for example, or suffer from asthma or chronic bronchitis, your accessory breathing muscles will be used excessively. Accessory breathing muscles should mostly be used when you are exercising, in order to get more air into your lungs. Those muscles are located along the neck, throat, chest and shoulders. Furthermore, if you are not using the diaphragm properly, your body will find a way to take in more air. The body will do so by lifting the ribs and shoulders, using the neck, throat and shoulder muscles.  Over time, this excessive use and strain on those muscles will pull your head, neck and jaw into a forward head posture, affecting the general alignment of the jaw and potentially causing TMD.

There is a little disc inside the joint that serves as a cushion.  With prolonged misalignment and dysfunctional movement patterns of the jaw, the disc can start sliding out of its optimal position. This can lead to the jaw clicking or locking, as well as limited range of motion. Average jaw opening is anywhere between 45-50mm.  We need a minimum of 30mm of jaw opening for safety, in case of choking or intubation.  This is why maintaining good mobility in the jaw is important at all times.

There are also many other factors that can cause TMD. A direct injury to the face or jaw, biting into something hard or chewy, a whiplash or a concussion can all cause immediate repercussions to the jaw. Furthermore, dysfunctional neck mobility, poor posture and even old injuries elsewhere in the body can all affect the jaw. This can cause tension of the ligaments, muscles, and tendons as well as the capsule surrounding the jaw.

Last but not least, digestive problems can also influence the optimal positioning and tension of the jaw. The digestive system begins in the mouth, therefore problems or tension along the long digestive tract can refer to the jaw.

At Ethos Collective Physiotherapy a thorough evaluation of the entire system during your first appointment is essential in order to customize the most appropriate treatment plan.  We can work closely with your dentist, orthodontist or ENT. We will collaborate together for optimal care.