Temporomandibular Joint (Jaw)dysfunction
Definition: ‘An umbrella term relating to mechanical and psychological pain and dysfunction of the Temporomandibular joint, it’s associated muscles involved in mastication and other functional mobilisations of the mandible’ Key Points: Pain can be significant / absent and cause functional impairment Pain can be both mechanically and psychologically driven Associated with other symptoms including headache and neck pain Crosses inter-disciplinary boundaries Variety of treatments available Diagnosis can be complex – treatment often difficult Incidence: 20-30% of population estimated to have some symptoms of TMJ Only 10% will seek medical advice Gender: females > males (4:1) !?!?!?!?!?!?!? Radiology: X-Ray - Changes in 14- 44% of the population (greater in older groups, lower incidence of symptoms) MRI – high % disc diplacement in healthy Age: highest incidence young adults 20-40 yrs Contributi...