Physio Network [Physio Explained] Assessment and treatment of the Temporomandibular joint with Lucy Butler
Aug 20, 2025
Join Lucy Butler, an experienced physiotherapist with a Masters in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, as she dives into the complexities of temporomandibular joint dysfunction. She discusses key assessment techniques to differentiate between muscular and intra-articular issues. Discover how manual therapy can benefit specific patient subgroups and why patient education is crucial. Lucy also explores the emerging role of Botox in treatment. This insightful discussion equips practitioners with practical tools for managing TMD effectively.
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Differentiate Muscle Vs Joint TMD
- Differentiate myogenous (muscle) TMD from intra-articular TMD by pain location and movements that provoke it.
- Use diagnostic criteria to guide whether symptoms stem from muscles or the joint itself.
Assess Function And Palpation First
- Assess pain during functional movements: opening, closing, lateral deviation, protraction and parafunctional tasks like chewing or yawning.
- Palpate muscles and test opening patterns to distinguish myogenous from intra-articular causes.
Use Manual Therapy Tailored To Findings
- Use soft tissue work for masseter/temporalis hypertrophy and accessory joint mobilizations for limited opening or intra-articular pain.
- Match the manual technique to the primary finding from your assessment, then add exercises to maintain gains.