Orofacial Physiotherapy/ Jaw Physiotherapy
The orofacial physiotherapist, also known as the jaw physiotherapist, treats complaints occurring in the head, neck, face, and masticatory system. In addition to complaints related to the masticatory system, complaints resulting from specific nerve disorders and cancer in the head and neck region can also be treated by the orofacial physiotherapist. Furthermore, the orofacial physiotherapist at Fysiotherapie GC Haarlemmermeer specializes in treating tinnitus, BPPV, and vestibular rehabilitation for dizziness.
- Treatable complaints
- Jaw complaints (Temporomandibular dysfunctions)
- Painful, pressing, or full feeling in the ear (Otalgia)
- Clenching and grinding teeth
- Jaw joint sounds such as popping and cracking
- Painful, tired, or tense chewing muscles
- Problems opening the mouth
- Pain in the jaw, face, or head
- Facial paralysis
- Neck and shoulder complaints
- Headache complaints
- Complaints in the head and neck area resulting from accidents and bone fractures, cancer, rheumatism, and other medical conditions
- Tinnitus
- Dizziness (including BPPV)
- Treatment
During the first treatment, an intake (interview) and physical examination take place. During the physical examination, in addition to the masticatory system and the inside of the mouth, the neck, shoulders, and upper back are also examined to obtain as complete a picture as possible of your complaints. After the intake and examination, an individual treatment plan is drawn up. This determines what the further treatment will entail.
There are various treatment methods for these complaints.
For example, the orofacial physiotherapist can help reduce tension in the jaw muscles by unlearning certain oral habits and lowering tension in the chewing muscles themselves, while also teaching self-massage and relaxation exercises. The orofacial physiotherapist can also help with limited mouth opening or temporomandibular joint complaints, such as a clicking sound during mouth movements. Sometimes, a person (especially in cases of clenching or grinding) is referred to the dentist for the fitting of an occlusal splint.
- Treatment of tinnitus:
Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears. There can be various causes of tinnitus. Sometimes (muscle) tension originating from the neck and/or jaw can affect the tinnitus. When this is the case, treatment can focus on this and potentially reduce the tinnitus or make it less bothersome.
- Tipping techniques in BPPV:
With BPPV, one experiences extreme vertigo when, for example, turning over in bed or lying down. Very small stones or grit have entered one of the semicircular canals of the vestibular system. This causes a false sensation of spinning. Using special tilting techniques, these stones can be moved out of the vestibular system. This treatment is very effective. Often, just 1-2 treatments are sufficient.
- Vestibular rehabilitation for dizziness:
In addition to BPPV, there are other forms of dizziness. These may, for example, have developed following vestibular neuritis. Often less intense, but very bothersome. Examples include a swaying sensation and balance problems during walking and head movements. 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 explanation, see also: https://gchaarlemmermeer.nl/hoofdpijncentrum/specialisaties/