Craniofacial Pain & TMJ (Jaw Pain)

TMD, also known as temporomandibular disorder is the medical term for jaw pain. Research shows that many patients live with TMD for years before it becomes painful enough to seek help. Some suffer from the problem suddenly usually by trauma or a blow to the head, face, neck, or mouth. 

Frequent headaches along with neck and shoulder pain are common signs of TMD. Other common signs are clicking or popping in your jaw, pain with chewing or yawning, grinding or clenching your teeth, worn-down teeth, your teeth do not touch when you bite, & stiffness in your jaw making it difficult to open and close your mouth. 

TMD is best treated by a professional physical therapist by addressing both the head and neck simultaneously, treating muscles as well as joints, and applying specific exercises, often in conjunction with a dental appliance.

Craniofacial pain refers to any pain in the TMJ, as well as facial/head/neck region. Craniofacial treatment can benefit the following:

• Sinus pain
• Ear pain
• Jaw pain
• Jaw clicking/popping
• Headaches
• Following facial surgery
• Athletics which cause frequent trauma to the head/face:
  boxing & mixed martial arts, soccer, lacrosse, hockey.
• Head injury/whiplash from traumatic situations like car accidents

If you are looking for a solution to your TMD and need a professional physical therapist in Denver, please contact us today!