Abstract

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) encompass musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions that involve the temporomandibular joint,the muscles of mastication and all associated tissues. The main symptoms of TMD is pain in the masticatory muscles, in the preauricular area and in the temporomandibular joint, as well as decreased joint mobility and presence of joint sounds. The treatment of TMD is mostly conservative including use of medication, use of occlusal splints, psychotherapy and physiotherapy. The treatment is individualised to meet the patients’ needs. Physiotherapy aims to relieve pain and to restore the function of the temporomandibular joint and the muscles of mastication. Patient education plays an important role in relieving symptoms. Physiotherapy techniques used for treatment include therapeutic exercises, manual techniques and electrophysical modalities.