Let Peak Performance Physical Therapy Help!
Hearing and feeling your jaw click isn’t comforting. On the contrary, it can be downright painful. Yet it is a constant reality for over 10 million Americans, who suffer with temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders (TMJ).
TMJ is marked by chronic jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and clicking and locking of the jaw. Many people with the disorder also experience frequent headaches, pain in their face or mouth, joint crackling, and muscle spasms.
The temporomandibular joint is a hinge that attaches the jaw to the temporal bones of the skull, which are located in front of the ears. This joint allows movement of the jaw back and forth and up and down, ushering in the ability to talk, yawn, and eat. When the functioning of this part of the body is hindered, it can make everyday activities difficult.
Causes of TMJ
Surprisingly little is known about temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders. Medical professionals do not know what causes the disorder, although there are several potential reasons it can develop. Some of these include:
- injury to the jaw, neck, or joint
- arthritis in the joint
- grinding or clenching of teeth, which leads to tremendous pressure on the joints
- stress, which results in a tightening of the jaw
- movement of the soft cushion between the ball and socket of the joint.
How is TMJ Dysfunction Diagnosed?
A diagnosis is usually made after a physical exam and health history review. A physician (or dentist), will examine the jaw joints for clicking, popping, and tenderness, followed by a look at whether the jaw opens and closes as it should. An x-ray may be ordered to rule out other concerns, while an MRI or CT scan can provide a closer look at the positioning and bony details.
Why is Physical Therapy the Right Solution?
Our expert physical therapy team can provide oral exercises and massage to reduce the jaw pain associated with TMJ Dysfunction. Treatment options generally include trigger point injections, TENS therapy, radio wave therapy, and jaw exercises. Physical therapy serves as the best, natural solution for permanent pain relief. Contact Peak Performance Physical Therapy now at (517) 853-6800 for more information.
Dr. Kyle Mulder, DDS
Grand Ledge Family Dentistry
Dr. Kyle Mulder, DDS, graduated from Grand Ledge High School and went on to receive a Bachelor of Arts in Advertising & Public Relations, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Human Biology from Michigan State University. He went on to receive his doctorate from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. Following Dental School, Dr. Mulder brought his talents and expertise back to his hometown, where he and his team operate Grand Ledge Family Dentistry.
Dr. Mulder is an active member of the American Dental Association, Michigan Dental Association, Central District Dental Society, and his local Spear Study Club. He participates in hundreds of hours of continuing education every year to provide his patients with the latest advances in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of dental disease; and other pathologies associated with the head and neck region. Some patients may be surprised by the connections between their oral and systemic health, but those links are important for clinicians to understand to get good outcomes.
Dr. Mulder is eager to share his knowledge and passion for dentistry with his patients and provides them with the highest standard of care in an evidence-based practice.
Grand Ledge Family Dentistry is currently accepting new patients. To schedule an appointment or learn more
Isaac De Jose
Physical Therapy Technician
Lansing Clinic
Hi! My name is Isaac De Jose. I am a physical therapy technician and personal trainer at Peak Performance Physical Therapy. I grew up on the east side in Ortonville, MI, where I went to Brandon High School. I currently attend Michigan State University for a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology. I love to work with athletes looking to optimize their physical performance on and off the court or field.
I grew up playing basketball and tennis while also finding love in music and dance. I like to be the first and last on the dance floor or the first and last on the court. My favorite quote is by famous author Albert Camus. He says,
“In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer. And that makes me happy. For it says that no matter how hard the world pushes against me, within me, there’s something stronger – something better, pushing right back.”
Kate Johnson
Patient Care Coordinator
Lansing Clinic
I grew up in the Flint area and stayed for college where I met my husband during my Freshman year. We got married right after graduation. My favorite achievement is being a mom to Anna (20), Nick (18) and Lauren (15).
I am an avid runner having completed 9 marathons including several Boston marathons. My focus now isn’t racing but coaching. I’ve been a coach for Team playmakers for 7 years.
My hobbies include traveling, watching my kids sports and enjoying time at our lake cottage.
Have you ever suffered from headaches, grinding of your teeth, clicking of your jaw, or even ear pain? You’re not alone. When I was in college, I dislocated my jaw playing basketball, and because of this, I know all too well how painful jaw pain and Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ) can be. Going through physical therapy as part of my recovery plan made a significant difference in eliminating my jaw pain, and I know we can do the same for you! Here at Peak Performance Physical Therapy, we aim to find the root cause of your pain and do everything in our power to give you the pain relief you deserve.
We look forward to helping you Reach Your Peak!
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