Overview
Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a term describing musculoskeletal conditions of the face, jaw and temporal regions. TMD is frequently associated with pain and/or dysfunction such as impaired jaw function, pain in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), muscles and/or related structures, and associated headaches. The etiology of TMD is multifactorial and complex.
It is known that one cause of TMD symptom development is treatment for head and neck cancer (HNC). The main treatment modalities for HNC include radiotherapy (RT) with or without chemotherapy and surgical intervention, as either a single therapy or a combination therapy. In the head and neck region, the anatomical structures are necessary for essential functions such as speech, swallowing, breathing, smell, and taste. The treatment of head and neck tumors may frequently impair some of these functions, which may result in pain, oral dysfunction, and impaired health-related quality of life.
Description
KMT evaluates the motions on the articular surfaces and applies them to treatment according to MacConaill's classification of synovial joints to restore the reduced accessory glides and achieve painless physiological movements. KMT involves the application of a passive sustained joint play that can be graded from I to III based on the type and amount of force applied. Grade-I, "loosening" refers to small-amplitude joint distraction that produces an appreciable increase in joint separation without any stress on the capsule that equalizes the cohesive forces, muscle tension and atmospheric pressure acting on the joint. Grade-II, "tightening" refers to the distraction or glide movements applied to tighten the tissues around the joint, also known as "taking up the slack". Grade-III, "stretching" refers to the distraction or glide movement applied to stretch the joint capsule and surrounding per articular structures, thus, increasing joint ROM.
Another option to consider is offered here at Pain and Performance Solutions. We have seen great results from treating TMJ disorders using Active Release Technique®. This deep tissue therapy technique is primarily used to break up adhesions and scar tissue on the surrounding muscle and ligaments. However, this technique has been proven a very effective method for treating TMD.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- An experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon will diagnose patients with temporomandibular joint disorders (myofascial pain, trismus and limitation of ROM) after head and neck cancer, patients.
- Patients with 20 to 60 years old.
- 6 months after ending radiotherapy.
Exclusion Criteria:
- Patients with implants.
- Current metastasis.
- Continuing radiotherapy.
- Pregnant females.
- Sensitivity to phototherapy.
- Bell's palsy.
- Subjects with disk displacement, arthralgia or osteoarthritis at TMJ.
- Subjects who received analgesics or antidepressants.