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Automobilization intervention and exercise for temporomandibular joint open lock
Lisa T Hoglund1, Brian W Scott
1University of the Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
The Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy
|November 2, 2013
Summary
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) open lock, often caused by posterior disk displacement, can be effectively treated with novel extraoral automobilization and exercises. This approach restored function and relieved pain in a patient unresponsive to other treatments.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Orthodontics
- Physical Therapy
Background:
- Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) are prevalent, causing pain and dysfunction.
- TMJ 'closed lock' is commonly managed with manual therapy and exercise.
- TMJ 'open lock' management, often due to posterior disk displacement (PDD) or TMJ anterior dislocation (TMJ-AD), has limited documented treatments.
Observation:
- A case report details a novel extraoral automobilization technique for TMJ 'open lock'.
- The technique utilized mandibular elevator muscles in a 22-year-old male whose intraoral joint mobilization failed.
- An exercise program was implemented for neuromuscular control post-reduction.
Findings:
- Short-term results showed excellent recovery, with restored swallowing, speech, and occlusion.
- Long-term follow-up at 14 months indicated a pain-free state with normal function and no recurrence of TMJ locking.
- Minor limitations in mandibular excursion and deviation suggest potential persistent PDD.
Implications:
- Extraoral automobilization combined with masticatory muscle exercises may be a viable treatment for TMJ open lock.
- This approach warrants consideration for managing PDD and TMJ-AD.
- Further research is needed to validate this novel technique for TMJ disorders.
