Craniomandibular Dysfunction

Craniomandibular Dysfunction (CMD) is an umbrella term for various symptoms that are associated with the chewing muscles, the jaw (temperomandibular) joints and associated structures. Problems include the „incorrect bite“, when the lower and upper jaw do not meet each other in an ideal position and asymmetryof the chewing muscles. This may lead to pain in the neck, the spine and the whole body. Collaboration between the dental health specialist, orthodontist, physiotherapist, osteopath and maybe even neurologist and psychologist is important to correct the problem.

Symptoms

-teeth grinding

-clicking jaw joints

-restriction in jaw joint mobility

-pain intensifies during movement of the jaw joints

-headache, migraine

-tinnitus, earache

-pain in the back, shoulders and neck

-spinal and joint problems

Treatment

A clinical functional analysis is performed and great attention is paid to the patient´s observations and complaints. During the extraoral examination, the therapist will analyse facial symmetry, profile and body position. He or she will also palpate mastication muscles as well as the temporomandibular joint and identify painful areas, muscle hypertonus and mandibular position.

As complementary treatment,ultrasound therapymay be applied to relieve and heal joint pain. We also use electrotherapyas a complementary treatment, which is useful in the rehabilitation of muscle, ligament and tendon injuries as well as in treating joints inflammation. Manual therapy, ostepathy andspecialized massage as well asJones counterstrain therapy are used for contracture of muscles or dislocation of the articular disc.

CMD treatment may be long and difficult. Cooperation between the patient and medical team are crucial.