TMJ & Temporal Mandibular Dysfunction (TMD)

An estimated 75% of the U.S. population has experienced one or more signs or symptoms of Temporal Mandibular Disorder (TMD) and Craniofacial Pain (CFP). Most TMD symptoms are temporary and fluctuate over time, requiring little or no professional intervention; but, an estimated 5-10% of the U.S. population will require professional treatment. TMD and CFP usually involve more than a single symptom and rarely have a single cause. The pain may arise suddenly or progress over months to years with intermittent frequency and intensity.

Because there is no quick fix or immediate cure for TMD and CFP, the most successful and scientifically supported treatments focus on self management and control of aggressive factors. Most patients suffering from both conditions achieve good long term relief with conservative (reversible) therapy. Scientific research demonstrates that over 50% of TMD patients treated with conservative management have few or no ongoing symptoms of TMD.

Recent Blog Posts

October 16, 2018 |

Trigeminal Neuralgia Physical Therapy Treatment Approach

Fothergill’s Disease (FD) also known as Trigeminal Neuralgia is characterized by paroxysmal attacks of severe, sharp, stabbing, electric shock-like pain affecting one side of face mainly second and third divisions of it. It can be triggered by chewing, speaking, and cold winds. Most of the time patients with FD or TN showed partially or refractory responsiveness to drug therapy or surgery for relief of pain. Hardly any studies have reported the role of physical therapy in Fothergill’s Disease or Trigeminal Neuralgia.

August 6, 2018 |

Facial Swelling As It Relates To TMJ Issues

What causes facial swelling? Practitioners who treat TMD/TMJ should be on the lookout for facial swelling and have an idea of what could be the cause. Mike Karegeannes lays out some common causes of facial swelling.

May 22, 2018 |

Can Migraines cause TMD? Migraine Awareness Month

TMD and TMJ expert Mike Karegeannes discusses research showing adequate treatment of migraines can reduce the occurrence of TMD. Should you make an appointment with a physical therapist to treat your headaches? Find out!

TMD Courses for Physical Therapists Read more