Tempromandibular Joint Syndrome...
TMJ finally gained the respect and recognition that it long
deserved as a legitimate diagnosis in the 1980's. Today, it remains
a frequent diagnosis given to many individuals who experience a myriad
of symptoms, complaints and oral dysfunction. TMJ dysfunction (often
just the 'tip of the iceberg'), is frequently a secondary manifestation
of underlying
primary problems associated with the craniosacral, nervous, musculoskeletal,
myofascial and masticatory systems. The influence of traumatic injuries,
physical, psychological or environmental stressors (past or present),
cannot be discounted. Stress, no matter the cause exacts a toll on
the body. Pain throughout the head/neck/face and upper back can be
constant or intermittent. Joint sounds with even the slightest movements
(often in a zigzag pattern) can be heard or felt. The mouth
can be stuck open or closed. Migraine headaches, depression, personality
changes, poor concentration/ focus, and self-pity are all associated
with chronic TMJ dysfunction.
Even the subtlest distortions in the alignment and symmetry of the
cranial and facial bones will have a dramatic affect on the function
of the mandibular joint. The hard palate can be influenced by boney
structures deep within the skull that result in malocclusion of the
teeth and secondary problems of the joint. Intestinal problems, structural
imbalances, head traumas, poor posture, emotional stressors in the
nature of frustration, chronic anger and neuroses contribute to jaw
clenching. The joint surface, disc and surrounding soft tissue are
compromised do to persistent and prolonged compression. TMJ syndrome
is a part of the whole person. Successful treatment requires a proactive
team evaluation and approach. The goal of craniosacral therapy is
to decompress the joints, balance the system and let nature and the
body take control of the healing/repair process. Successful
approaches used:
primary problems associated with the craniosacral, nervous, musculoskeletal,
myofascial and masticatory systems. The influence of traumatic injuries,
physical, psychological or environmental stressors (past or present),
cannot be discounted. Stress, no matter the cause exacts a toll on
the body. Pain throughout the head/neck/face and upper back can be
constant or intermittent. Joint sounds with even the slightest movements
(often in a zigzag pattern) can be heard or felt. The mouth
can be stuck open or closed. Migraine headaches, depression, personality
changes, poor concentration/ focus, and self-pity are all associated
with chronic TMJ dysfunction.