TMJ/Jaw Dysfunction

TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint, connecting the lower jaw (mandible) to the temporal bones of the skull. This joint is remarkable as it enables various movements of the jaw—forward, backward, and side to side—allowing functions like chewing, speaking, singing, yawning, and more. It also has an impact on neck and shoulder movements. You can locate this joint just in front of your ears on both sides of your head.

Any issues involving the muscles, ligaments, discs, bones, or the joint itself are referred to as temporomandibular disorders (TMD). TMD encompasses disorders where the jaw joint is misaligned, leading to problems like pain, inflammation, and restricted jaw movement. However, these conditions are often mistakenly called by the joint name, TMJ.