Cervical Range of Motion & TMJ
Sure, TMJ disorders can respond very well to acupuncture. But it isn't just needling ST7 or SI19. And it isn't just ashi needling or needling the masseter motor point.
In fact, before you put any needles in, you should go through an assessment. How else will you know why the patient has TMJ pain and how to treat it?
One important part of the assessment is the exam. During the exam, we need to check the patient's cervical Range of Motion (ROM). There must be cervical extension in order for the jaw to function properly. Go ahead and try it! Open your mouth like you're taking a big bite and you will notice your head tilts back.
A 2003 study found that all participants with TMJ complaints had either reduced or no cervical extension.
If your TMJ patient has reduced or absent cervical extension (their head doesn't tilt back), then you will have to address the neck.
August 16th & 23rd at 3:30pm EDT!
Everyone needs to get to these August labs—this is your chance to bring your toughest patient cases straight to Anthony and get real answers. Come for solutions, stay for the kind of knowledge that takes your practice to the next level. 🏆
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August 15th registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/i-MdsBnrRXGlVcnuA9WK5Q
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Hi @Exstoreman , I have come across my first case of notalgia parasthetica . He’s has a persistent itch in the left intrascapular region at around T6 level ( about the diameter of a golf ball). It started 9 months ago after a bad sunburn. It’s not actually the reason why he’s seeing me but he mentioned he had this annoying persistent itch and that’s what I think it is. He’s seeking treatment for muscular tension in the neck and shoulders and he also suffers from cluster headaches ( hasn’t had any for 5 months). But my question is for the notalgia parasthetica: I’m using T6-9 HJJ (no estim) for that . Any other tips? Can I expect full resolution with consistent treatment?
Comment below on this post on how you're doing - and be honest! Are you feeling kind of blah about practicing? Feeling stuck? Not sure if you're bored or burned out? And are you tired of seeing certain patients, maybe you find them exhausting, but you're not sure how to say no?
It may be time to specialize. Comment below and let me know if you'd like a webinar on this. We can get you excited again to practice!
