Maxillo-facial SIG

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain

Temporomandibular joint pain or discomfort occurs during the use of the jaw (eating, speaking, swallowing) and is accompanied by crepitation and/or cracking sounds. Possible causes include occlusal disorders, meniscal dislocations, or temporomandibular joint arthritis. The overload caused by teeth grinding or pressing on the teeth during the day and/or night is another factor in these pains. Sometimes these pains are the result of a blow to the jaw, the cause may also be located at the level of the cranial sutures and/or a cranial nerve. Many jaw pains are related to neck pain.

Maxillofacial Rehabilitation

It is about finding the most likely cause of the problem in order to treat it accordingly.

In case of muscle overload, it is necessary to eliminate muscle tensions and teach the patient to control his bad habits (grinding, pressing).

In case of meniscal dislocation or arthritis, it is necessary to add stretching and mobilization maneuvers. Cranial sutures must be treated with very specific techniques that only specially trained physiotherapists can perform.

Often, it is necessary to work on the balance between the anterior and posterior musculature.

In case of dental imbalance, close collaboration with the dentist or stomatologist is essential.