Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Capsulitis/ Synovitis - Jaw pain

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Capsulitis/Synovitis- Jaw Pain

Temporomandibular joint capsulitis (Jaw joint) involves patients complaining of pain or tenderness over the TMJ/Jaw during actions of protrusion, lateral movement, chewing on the opposite side and opening the mouth widely.

Temporomandibular joint synovitis/ Jaw pain on the other hand, presents as a one sided TMJ/jaw pain when the patient completely closes their mouth. The condition is often caused by over stretching of the jaw joint capsule due to wide yawning or dental procedures and also micro trauma from poor chewing habits or occlusional malposition (misalignment of teeth).

Signs and Symptoms of Temporomandibular joint dysfunction:

Pain on palpation over the TMJ/ jaw

Pain on pushing over the facial muscles

Limitations and/or deviations in jaw movement

Joint sounds when moving jaw e.g. popping/grinding

Headaches and dizziness

Earache, or ringing in the ears

To differentiate between TMJ capsulitis and synovitis and other disorders of the Jaw, the doctor looks for certain movements that stretch the jaw joint capsule and increase pain over the TMJ. If the patient complains of popping or clicking while opening and closing the mouth the doctor considers the articular disc to be displaced forwards.

Management of Jaw pain:

Certain treatments can be used in the management of TMJ joint capsulitis/synovitis including self-care, patient education, pharmacology, TMJ exercises and trigger point therapy. Cold Laser Therapy or Low-Level Laser Therapy can also be used in the treatment of temporomandibular joint capsulitis/synovitis. Cold Laser Therapy utilises a non-invasive technique and uses the latest laser technology to penetrate deep into the underlying tissues without breaking the skins surface.

It’s a modality used in many health professions with the number one aim of reducing inflammation and tenderness by providing blood and oxygen to the affected tissues.

Cold Laser Therapy (low-level laser therapy) in the treatment of temporomandibular joint capsulitis/synovitis, focuses on modulating the inflammation in the joint by irradiating the TMJ and related muscles to achieve the maximal pain relief and muscle relaxation.   

Protocol of cold laser therapy in management if jaw pain

Treatment for temporomandibular joint capsulitis/synovitis using cold laser therapy consists of visits 2-3x/week lasting 20 minutes each. The laser is placed on multiple points along the affected jaw and TMJ, moving over each tender area caused by the disorder. In order to receive the maximum benefit from the low-level laser therapy in the management of the disorder, it’s recommended that patients visit the clinic 10-12 times, with follow up visits every 6 months.

Temporomandibular joint capsulitis/synovitis is a common condition in the Australian population which has shown to be managed extremely well by Cold Laser Therapy. The therapy is very cost-effective and efficient and doesn’t place patients at any undue risks.

If you’ve been diagnosed with TMJ disorder or are experiencing symptoms such as jaw pain, clicking, or restricted movement, Lakeside Laser in Gnangara, WA 6077 is here to help. Dr Linda Schiller offers Cold Laser / Low Level Laser Therapy as a non-invasive, effective option for managing TMJ-related discomfort and inflammation.

Conveniently located just minutes from Joondalup and easily accessible from Perth’s northern suburbs, we regularly welcome clients from Wanneroo, Sorrento, Marangaroo, Yanchep, Ellenbrook, Girrawheen, Kallaroo, Doubleview, and surrounding areas.

If you have any questions about TMJ disorders or would like to book an appointment, contact Dr Linda Schiller on 0468 429 111 or visit our website at www.lakesidelaser.com.au.