Osteopathy and physiotherapy for temporomandibular joint, head and facial pain
The role of stress in temporomandibular joint disorders
Jaw problems often have deeper causes that go beyond the
Teeth and jaw joint protrude. Teeth grinding or
-Squeezing – especially at night – is a common reaction to stress.
Dentists often observe typical grinding and pressing marks on the
Teeth firmly indicate such behavior. Additionally,
Traumas such as accidents or changes during life
Pregnancy can lead to jaw dysfunction.
Scientific support for CRAFTA therapy for temporomandibular joint disorders
CRAFTA therapy (Cranial Facial Therapy Academy) is a specialized method for treating complaints in the head, face, and jaw area. Studies have shown that CRAFTA methods can be effectively used to treat temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders by relieving muscular and myofascial tension in the head and neck. A systematic examination using CRAFTA therapy can detect functional disorders early and improve them through targeted manual techniques.
Osteopathic approaches to temporomandibular joint therapy
When treating jaw problems, a comprehensive medical history is taken to identify causes outside the jaw as well. Possible postural problems, previous injuries, everyday strains, or occupational stressors can play a role and are taken into account during therapy.
The treatment itself does not focus solely on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). First, surrounding contributing factors are addressed, such as muscular imbalances in the neck and shoulder area, scars, tension in the pelvic floor or diaphragm, and, if necessary, spinal blockages. Techniques such as trigger point release and intraoral techniques are used to specifically relax muscles and fascia in the oral cavity.
Especially in the case of CMD complaints, which often result from a variety of physical and emotional causes, osteopathy offers a gentle, side-effect-free alternative to purely drug-based approaches.
Targeted exercises complement passive therapy in order to sustainably maintain the achieved range of motion or the pain-free feeling.
A comprehensive approach for long-lasting relief
Jaw problems can have diverse and far-reaching causes that are not solely attributable to dental diseases or joint changes. The combination of physiotherapy and osteopathy, particularly with CRAFTA therapy, can help alleviate chronic and acute symptoms and improve quality of life.
If a dentist or oral surgeon cannot find a dental cause for jaw pain, it's worth considering physiotherapy or osteopathy. Not all jaw pain or limitations originate directly in the teeth or jaw joints. Many factors affecting the entire body can influence the jaw joint and trigger symptoms such as pain, teeth grinding, or jaw clicking.
Common applications of temporomandibular joint therapy:
-
Dysfunction when opening and closing the mouth
(Cracking, grinding, rubbing noises) -
Head and neck pain
-
Pain in the jaw and facial area
-
Traumatic injuries, such as after a jaw fracture or
Surgery in the jaw area -
in combination with orofacial myofunctional disorders
with speech therapy
These symptoms are often collectively referred to as CMD – craniomandibular dysfunction. Patients
Patients often report pain when chewing, speaking, laughing, or yawning, accompanied by clicking and grinding noises. Because the temporomandibular joint is closely connected to the ear area, tinnitus, dizziness, or hearing loss can also occur. Additionally, tension in the neck and shoulder area can cause headaches and even back pain.
