Comprehensive evaluation.
During an initial evaluation, an in-depth history will be taken and reviewed, including prior diagnoses, symptoms, and background of jaw dysfunction. You will also be asked to provide information on your social history including sleep, work, stress and daily habits and activities as these can affect your jaw health. Postural assessment, strength testing, range of motion assessment, palpation of key muscle groups and joint anatomy are all part of evaluation.
Customized Treatment.
Treatment is customized to the individual based on evaluation findings. Treatment includes the use of modalities, manual techniques such as myofascial release and trigger point release, joint mobilization, and neuromuscular reeducation of the jaw. Education and exercises are also tailored to each individual, focused on strengthening, restoring range of motion, improving posture and overall health. Clients are taught to self mobilize and perform soft tissue release on themselves as a program of self care and self management of TMD is our overall goal.
Individuals typically feel at least some relief when first starting treatment of TMD. However, this condition is usually caused by long term wear and tear, and will likely take 6-8 weeks to heal the tissue and get long term relief. TMD can be transient and go away, but sometimes is a chronic condition which requires long term management. Ollason Orofacial Therapy is here to help you create a management program.