Mandibular manipulation of anterior disc displacement without reduction

The history and clinical symptoms of anterior temporomandibular joint disc displacement without reduction are characteristic, and include limitation of mandibular movement and mandibular deviation on opening of the mouth. Twelve consecutive patients attending a clinic with such symptoms were treated by mandibular manipulation. An immediate increase in the range of mandibular movement was obtained for all patients, with a mean increase in interincisal opening of 8 mm. The method of manipulation is described, and the implications of the results for the treatment of TMJ patients are discussed.