Recognised healthcare provider for

TMJ & TMJ related Headaches

How Physiotherapists can help with TMJ disorders

What is TMJ/TMD?

Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) and craniofacial pain (CFP) are disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and their associated anatomical structures (muscles 0f mastication). The anatomical structures and associated muscles of mastication (Jaw muscles) provide mandible (Lower jaw) movement to the maxillae (Upper Jaw), skull and neck. The muscles of mastication (Lateral and Medial Pterygoid, Masseter & Temporalis) are also accountable for various jaw actions such as eating, talking and side to side movement of the lower jaw. It has been shown that TMD disorders affect approx 33% of adults, with an incidence at 20-40 years of age. Clinical research has also shown that TMJ disorders affect women more than men.

Common symptoms

  • Headaches & Migraines (there is substantial clinical evidence showing that these are often related to  TMD)
  • Pain or tenderness in the jaw
  • Pain in one or both Temporomandibular Joints
  • Pain in or around the ear
  • Difficulty chewing or pain when chewing
  • Locking of the joint or limited range of motion with opening and closing of the mouth
  • Overactive facial muscles / aching facial pain
  • Grinding & clenching teeth (associated with Bruxism, or sleep Bruxism)
  • Pain reported behind the eyes (and often with blurred vision)
  • Toothache
  • Congestion or ringing in the ears
  • Clicking, popping or crepitus
  • Vertigo (dizziness)
  • Difficulty sleeping (Commonly associated with Sleep apnea)

How Physiotherapy can treat TMJ Disorders?
Physiotherapy treatment has proven to be very effective for TMJ disorders, aiming to identify and reduce pain-associated factors associated (both intra and extra-articular) by implementing an interdisciplinary approach. The physiotherapist may utilise joint mobilisation, soft tissue massage, and dry needling to effectively alleviate pain and restore function.

Our physiotherapist can also consult with your dentist or orthodontist (if you have a current one) when they are crafting your individual treatment plan. If you wish for the physio to include your dentist in the loop, please let your physio know when you come in for your first consult.


Our TMJ trained Physiotherapist

Zac Moukaddem, physiotherapist
Physiotherapist
Zac Moukaddem
Physiotherapist, B.ExSc, DPT
::CBD Sydney ::Drummoyne

Other Sports Lab Physiotherapy Interest Areas

Sports Lab has several physios that are experienced in specific fields, including:

  • Concussion Management
  • Pole and Circus Arts
  • Singing
  • Swimming
  • Skiing
  • Footy
  • Soccer
  • Netball
  • Dance
  • Shoulder
  • Women’s Health

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“Free yourself of pain.”

Sports Lab
 Integrated System

Physiotherapy at Sports Lab also offers the opportunity for our unique integrated assessment and treatment system. In this system, patients have the option to be assessed (at the same time) by Physiotherapy, Chiropractic, Muscle Therapy and Podiatry, in the one extra long session. Treatment is then based on consensus between therapists for the optimal result.

Disciplines at Sports Lab

Our integrated service disciplines are able to cover all of your health care needs, and are outlined below:

Physiotherapy 
Chiropractic 
Massage Therapy
Podiatry 
Pilates
Exercise Physiology
Dry Needling 
Women’s Health