Peter Bond, Collins Place Physio’s resident jaw guru, has been treating patients with TMJ/Jaw pain and dysfunction for over 25 years. Peter has undertaken advanced training with some of the world’s leading authorities in TMJ assessment and treatment and is referred patients from many of Melbourne’s leading Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, Oral Medicine Specialists and Dentists. He works very closely with these specialists to offer a holistic treatment regimen to his patients.
Peter gave us some insight into this complex area from a perspective of where and how TMJ pain can be felt and his deep understanding of assessment and treatment of the jaw.
The jaw consists of two TMJ joints (left and a right) and when operating well moves a bit like the handle of a bucket. There can be considerable variation in the movement of the TMJ, which can result in significant deviation of jaw motion.
Temporomandibular (TMJ) or jaw injury can:
- Be a common source of headaches.
- Refer symptoms widely, including to the eye, ear, head, face, sinuses and neck.
- Cause noises such as clicks, clunks and pops.
- Cause a grating sensation or a feeling that sand is in the joint.
- Limit the ability to open or close the mouth.
- Cause the jaw to lock open or closed.
In assessing TMJ pain there is a need to be thorough, paying particular attention the jaw and neck as well as posture. Symptoms can arise from the joints &/or associated muscles of the neck or TMJ.
Manual treatment and a home exercise programme (which Peter clearly guides his patients through) are both normal parts of TMJ treatment. There may also be a need to change some behaviours such sucking on a straw, playing a musical instrument, resting the hand on the chin and holding a pencil between the teeth.
Don’t hesitate to call the clinic to book an appointment with Peter if you are suffering from jaw pain or dysfunction.
