What Is TMJ Disorder?
Often referred to as TMJ syndrome, temporomandibular joint dysfunction refers to pain in the joint that connects the jaw to the skull. This condition can stem from various causes and may lead to different problems in other areas of the head. TMJ syndrome is often associated with neck pain, headaches, and discomfort around the ear or face. It can also cause the jaw to lock, making it difficult to open, or produce clicking and popping sounds when chewing or biting down. At UMG Physical Therapy in Columbia, MD, our team can help manage and alleviate these symptoms through patient-centered treatment plans.
How Is TMJ Disorder Treated?
TMJ disorder is treated using a combination of techniques aimed at relieving pain and improving jaw function. Our physical therapists focus on exercises to strengthen and stretch the jaw muscles, helping to reduce tension and discomfort. They may use manual therapy, such as gentle joint mobilization, to improve the alignment and mobility of the jaw. Additionally, modalities like heat or cold therapy, ultrasound, and sometimes dry needling can be applied to relieve pain and inflammation. Education on posture and behavior modification is often provided to prevent further strain on the jaw, and therapists may also suggest exercises for TMJ disorder that include the neck and shoulders, as these areas can impact TMJ function.
What Are the Symptoms of TMJ Disorder?
TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, can affect the jaw and surrounding areas, leading to a range of uncomfortable symptoms. Recognizing these signs early can help manage the condition more effectively, like:
- Joint or facial pain
- Pain with yawning, chewing, or talking
- Headaches
- Popping or clicking in the jaw
- Jaw swelling
- Tinnitus or mild hearing loss
- Ear pain
- Symptoms lasting days to years
UMG Physical Therapy Reviews
On Tuesday, I woke up with a crick in my neck after sleeping wrong on it and through the day it got progressively worse - I had to keep my neck tilted to the right (ear to shoulder) because it was 10/10 pain tilting it to the left or holding it straight. Was thinking Wednesday it was going to get better but it actually got even worse. Just sitting in a car trying to stabilize my neck with turns and bumps in the road was causing sharp jabs of pain in my neck.Went to see Jeffery and Kevin on Thursday and they did a quick diagnosis and began massaging my neck, shoulders and back which provided immediate relief to the pain. Jeffery has miracle hands. They had me do some compound stretches involving multiple muscle groups and strengthening exercises to give me ways to strengthen my back, shoulders, and neck for preventive exercises. For each exercise and stretch, they explained what was being accomplished and why. That really helped me understand how I got into the neck pain and how to prevent it in the future.Lastly, the billing process/dealing with insurance was seamless with them and went without a hitch - that has always been a sore spot for me in dealing with medical stuff - not so with UMG!Jeffery and Kevin provided professional and personalized care that you won't get at the chain physical therapy spots trying to get you in-and-out. I highly recommend seeing them for any acute pain or longstanding issues! I've had back and shoulder issues in the past and have also started to see them to get those addressed so I don't tweak my back in the future!
UMG rocks! They really knows their stuff! The facility is clean and well equipped. Friendly staff. And the program they designed made a significant difference in my pain and discomfort. Easy parking right outside the building. Give them a try.
I had the pleasure of visiting Dr. Kevin Ung and Jeffrey for physical therapy today. The clinic is spacious, clean, and well-maintained, which immediately set a positive tone. Both Dr. Ung and Jeffrey were incredibly professional and made sure I felt well taken care of. They really emphasized their dedication to helping me feel better, and I appreciated how attentive and focused they were on my needs. I had an amazing experience. I was truly impress with their knowledge and expertise in rehabilitating muscle groups. They made me feel comfortable and well taken care of throughout the entire process. I highly recommend their services if you’re looking for a knowledgeable and caring team.
Highly recommend this place!!!! - I had the pleasure of seeing Dr. Kevin Ung and Jeffrey today, and I couldn’t be more impressed. The facility was spacious, clean, and welcoming, which made me feel comfortable right away. Dr. Kevin and Jeffrey were both extremely attentive, taking the time to listen to my concerns and addressing them with care and professionalism. They really made me feel at ease and significantly improved my well-being. Highly recommend their services!
It is an incredible place, from the first time they welcome you and throughout the whole process it is truly incredible.Guys you are amazing...
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Experience Relief from TMJ Pain
The skilled physical therapists at UMG Physical Therapy in Columbia, MD can create a personalized plan with stretches and exercises to help ease TMJ pain by reducing joint and muscle tension, providing the relief you're looking for. By following the recommended therapy, you can strengthen the muscles that control the jaw and reduce the chances of future flare-ups. Contact us today to schedule an appointment, and start your path to TMJ relief.