The head, neck, and jaw complex is an amazing system. Under normal conditions, the head is dynamically balanced on the cervical spine (neck), so your eyes can look to the horizon. The neck muscles, along with the vestibular system (eyes), work together to balance your head on a curve. This is known as cervical lordosis. Furthermore, the head-neck position influences the rest position and movement path of the mandible (jaw). Finally, the teeth become the final point of contact during functional activity, such as chewing.
Therefore, any imbalance in occlusion (teeth), temporomandibular joints (TMJ), cervical spine, vestibular system, and ocular system can upset the balance of the head, neck, and jaw complex. Imbalance occurs in a sudden trauma like car accidents or with microtrauma, such as poor posture. Repetitive overuse activities can also create imbalance, such as clenching and poor sitting posture at laptops. Some imbalance is congenital, or from birth, such as scoliosis, leg length discrepancy, and torticollis.
Imbalance of the head, neck, and jaw complex can lead to spinal mis-alignment, muscle trigger points, and nerve impingement, which leads to headaches, neck pain, facial pain, and dizziness.
Highly skilled therapists at Sternen Physical Therapy work closely with internists, dentists, headache neurologists, and ENTs, to restore balance to your head, neck, and jaw complex.
Posture Evaluation
Identify misalignment in spinal curves and areas of musculoskeletal imbalance.
Cervical Spine Evaluation
Cervical range of motion, muscle testing, and joint palpation of the spine to determine if nerve impingement, disc pathology and facet restrictions contribute to your pain.
Muscle Trigger Point Testing
Identify muscle trigger points that reproduce your pain referral patterns.
TMJ Evaluaton
Temporomandibular (TMJ) range of motion and palpation to identify a TMJ disorder.
Occlusal Screening
Basic screening to check for occlusal imbalance and signs of clenching and grinding that may perpetuate your pain.
Vestibular Screening
Baseline vestibular testing to identify if a dysfunction contributes to your symptoms.
PHYSICAL THERAPY TREATMENT
SPECIALIZED THERAPY FOR:
- Tension Headaches/Migraines
- Cervicogenic Headaches
- TMJ Disorders
- Neck Disorders
- Post-concussion Care
- Dizziness/Vertigo
- Ear Symptoms
MANUAL THERAPY
A variety of hands-on techniques are used to release restrictions in the body’s fascia, surrounding musculature, and joints.
- Myofascial Release
- Soft Tissue Mobilization
- Trigger Point Release
- Joint Mobilization
- Craniosacral Therapy
- Intraoral Release
MODALITIES
Physical therapy modalities are used to decrease inflammation, reduce pain, and promote healing of involved tissues.
- Ultrasound
- Iontophoresis
- Electrical Stimulation
- Neuroprobe
- Mechanical Traction
EXERCISE
A specific exercise program is designed for you to restore balance to your body and promote improved function.
- Range of motion
- Strengthening
- Neuromuscular Reeducation
- Therapeutic Activity
Sternen Physical Therapy is recognized in the Cleveland area for specialized care of patients suffering from headaches, neck pain, and TMJ disorders. Put your rehabilitation in the hands of our talented therapists who have a confident understanding of the amazing head, neck, and jaw complex.
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
Work Hard And Progress In Your Recovery
Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free!