History
The patient had developed left sided jaw pain 4 weeks prior for no obvious reason. Yawning biting and chewing were painful. In addition, he was experiencing pain around his left ear and a headache on the left temple region. His Dentist ruled out a dental cause. X-rays were normal and the patient was referred to an Oral Medicine Specialist but could not get an appointment for over a month (and had not been at the time of writing this case study). The patient has a history of night time teeth grinding. He also has a history of whiplash and gets regular neck stiffness related to his exercise regime and rock climbing. The patient was referred to us for very specific Physiotherapy by his Physiotherapist friend.
Examination
The patient had good posture but with stiffness and tenderness in all associated jaw and neck structures. Jaw opening range was normal but with some left sided pulling (deflection). Other jaw movements were painful on the left side. The left jaw joint was tender along all aspects, as were the associated muscles of the jaw and related neck muscles. There was a mild left joint clicking.
Response to very specific Physiotherapy Treatment
The patient responded extremely well to 2 physiotherapy treatments which focused on improving mechanics at both the neck and jaw and educating him about avoiding aggravating activities and posture when exercising. The patient was discharged and reported being over 90% pain and headache free.