This course will primarily be focused on displacement of the intra-articular disc of the TMJ, but will also cover the role of the subcranial spine in the causation of craniofacial pain and the association between detrimental oral habits (parafunctions) and craniofacial pain. Medial and lateral disc subluxations will be carefully examined, as will disc-condyle and disc-eminence subluxations. The progression of disc subluxation and other intra-articular pathology will be demonstrated by the use of clinical examples and all disorders will be illustrated by imaging. The imaging methods used in the diagnosis and management of the TMJ will be explained; this includes transcranial radiographs and tomography, as well as MRI, used for diagnosis and clinical management of intra-articular disc displacements. The lab sessions will focus on assessment of intra-articular pathology, as well as preparations of the TMJ and subcranial spine for reduction of the intra-articular disc. Finally, participants will have the chance to practice disc reduction and subsequent stabilization of the disc in the reduced position.
Course Level: Introductory/Intermediate
Prerequisites: NA
Audience: PT/OT/ATC/PTA/OTA
Contact Hrs: 16 Live
Instructor: Mark Strickland
