Orofacial Physical Therapy / Jaw Physical Therapy
The orofacial physical therapist, also known as the jaw physical therapist, treats conditions affecting the head, neck, face, and masticatory system. In addition to issues with the masticatory system, the orofacial physical therapist can also treat conditions resulting from specific neurological disorders and cancer in the head and neck region. Furthermore, the orofacial physical therapist at Fysiotherapie GC Haarlemmermeer specializes in treating tinnitus, BPPD, and vestibular rehabilitation for dizziness.
- Treatable symptoms
- Jaw problems (Temporomandibular disorders)
- Pain, pressure, or a feeling of fullness in the ear (otalgia)
- Teeth clenching and grinding
- Noises from the jaw joint, such as popping and cracking
- Sore, tired, or tense jaw muscles
- Difficulty opening the mouth
- Pain in the jaw, face, or head
- Facial paralysis
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Headache symptoms
- Symptoms in the head and neck region resulting from accidents and fractures, cancer, rheumatism, and other conditions
- Tinnitus
- Dizziness (including BPPD)
- Treatment
During the first visit, we will conduct an initial consultation and a physical examination. The physical examination will include an assessment of your jaw, the inside of your mouth, as well as your neck, shoulders, and upper back, in order to gain the most comprehensive understanding possible of your symptoms. Following the consultation and examination, we will develop a personalized treatment plan that outlines the course of your treatment.
There are several treatment options for these symptoms.
For example, an orofacial physical therapist can help reduce tension in the jaw muscles by helping patients break certain oral habits and by reducing tension in the masticatory muscles themselves, which also involves teaching self-massage and relaxation exercises. The orofacial physical therapist can also help with limited mouth opening or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues, such as a clicking sound when moving the mouth. Sometimes, a patient (especially those who clench or grind their teeth) is referred to a dentist to have a bite guard fitted.
- Treatment of tinnitus:
Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears. There can be various causes of tinnitus. Sometimes, tension (including muscle tension) in the neck and/or jaw can affect tinnitus. When this is the case, treatment can focus on these areas and may reduce the tinnitus or make it less bothersome.
- Flipping techniques in BPPD:
With BPPV, people experience severe spinning vertigo, for example, when they turn over in bed or lie down. Tiny crystals have entered one of the semicircular canals of the vestibular system. This causes an incorrect sensation of spinning. These particles can be dislodged from the vestibular system using special head-tilting techniques. This treatment is very effective. Often, just 1–2 treatments are sufficient.
- Vestibular rehabilitation for dizziness:
In addition to BPPD, there are other forms of dizziness. These can, for example, result from vestibular neuritis. They are often less severe but can still be very bothersome. Symptoms may include a swaying sensation and balance problems while walking or moving the head, difficulty focusing during head movements, or significant difficulty walking in the dark or on uneven surfaces. Vestibular rehabilitation focuses on improving eye control, head movements, and balance. For more information, see:https://gchaarlemmermeer.nl/hoofdpijncentrum/specialisaties/