Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) – A physiotherapy perspective
This introductory course aims to enhance the skills of clinicians in the field of musculoskeletal physiotherapy in the management of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). It presents current concepts of the syndrome including pain mechanisms and resultant pathokinematics and reviews the validated classification system of TMD and its subsets.
The theoretical knowledge supports the evidence that underpins the rationale for the clinical tests used in differential diagnosis and facilitates an integrated and critical approach to management of the related structures. The practical component of the course assists participants to develop analytical skills and to apply appropriate examination and treatment techniques.
Throughout the course emphasis is placed on clinical reasoning to support management decisions of the TMD subsets and on how it directs evidence-based practice.
Learning outcomes
- Acquire a deeper understanding of the functional anatomy and arthrokinematics of the TMJ and their relationship to the spine
- Review current concepts including pain neurosciences and patho-kinematics associated with orofacial pain and dysfunction
- Review the validated classification of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and the pathophysiology of its subsets
- Identify the various types of headaches that may overlap with orofacial pain patterns associated with TMD
- Appreciate the development of TMD secondary to external trauma
- Perform a comprehensive and integrated assessment of the TMJ and related structures
- Integrate evidence-based knowledge and expertise in the application of manual skills relative to joint and soft tissue mobilization, and exercise prescription, in the management of TMD
- Recognize the extent and the limitations of physiotherapy and its role in a multi-disciplinary team in the overall management of TMD
- Appreciate other relevant forms of treatment for orofacial pain and dysfunction in a biopsychosocial context
Prerequisites
- Participants should be physiotherapists with at least 1 year post-graduate clinical experience, the majority of it being in the field(s) of musculoskeletal, orthopaedics and/or sports physiotherapy.
- This course is only available to qualified and AHPRA registered physiotherapists.