What Are the Career Prospects After Completing TMJ Training?
Career Prospects After Completing TMJ Training
TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders are complex medical conditions causing pain in the jaw, teeth, muscles, neck, head, and ears. They can cause clicking, popping, grating, or locking of the jaw, leading to difficulty opening or closing the mouth, chewing, swallowing, and speaking. The symptoms can impact all aspects of a person’s life, making work difficult and limiting social activities.
A physical therapist who has completed TMJ training will be able to treat the muscles, bones, and joints of the jaw and face. They will also be able to identify the underlying causes of TMJ disorders, including poor posture and clenching or grinding of the teeth, which can aggravate the condition. Physical therapists will be able to recommend specific exercises and manual treatment techniques that will improve jaw movement and help alleviate the pain.
Some people develop TMJ disorders because of an injury or trauma, while others may be genetically predisposed to developing the condition due to family history and/or genetic mutations. TMD is also associated with eating a diet rich in foods that are difficult to digest, such as chewy or crunchy meats and vegetables, which can strain the jaw. Stress or anxiety can also trigger TMD, as can certain habits like yawning or singing, and excessive jaw opening and closed while sleeping.
Many chiropractors, physical therapists, or massage clinics now house TMJ specialty practitioners to better serve patients onsite. This interdisciplinary collaboration delivers superior outcomes for TMJ therapy patients. If you are seeking TMJ therapy, check the credentials of your provider and request that they provide proof of tmj training and specialization beforehand.
What Are the Career Prospects After Completing TMJ Training?
TMJ disorder treatments can range from dietary and behavioral modification to jaw exercises, and a variety of other physical therapy techniques. These modalities can include dental splints to reduce compression forces on the jaw and retrain bruxism patterns, postural retraining to minimize forward head position which overworks the associated musculature, and physical exercises to improve strength, range of motion, and flexibility.
The most important thing to remember about TMJ disorder treatments is that they aren’t quick fixes and require patience and persistence. The pain can last for years, but with a customized treatment plan, profound improvements are possible. Some patients have had their TMD symptoms relieved completely within six months, while others need longer for complete relief.
If you are interested in learning more about treating TMJ disorders, consider a Frontline TMJ, Headaches, and Orofacial Pain Trigger Point Therapy Training Course Level 2. This two-day course is designed to provide participants with a basic understanding of anatomy and biomechanics of the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) and how they can create pain in the head and neck. Through hands-on lab time, you will be able to palpate anatomical structures and learn effective joint mobilization and myofascial release techniques for the TMJ and upper cervical spine. You will also learn how to integrate a comprehensive home exercise regimen to promote long-term success for your patients.
Beyond manual therapies, hands-on experience may also encompass modalities such as ultrasound therapy, electrotherapy, and laser therapy, which are utilized to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and promote tissue healing in TMJ patients. Practical training allows practitioners to familiarize themselves with these modalities and understand their application within the context of TMJ management.