Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) technique video

Susan Salvo has published a video, available on YouTube, demonstrating techniques for working on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

When you watch the video, look for how she presents the following foundational concepts:

• Anatomy:
  • Buccal area
  • Mandible
    • Ramus of mandible
  • Muscles of mastication
    • Temporalis
    • Masseter
    • Medial pterygoids
    • Lateral pterygoids
  • Zygomatic arch
• Massage techniques
  • Friction
    • Circular friction
    • Cross-fiber friction
  • Mobilization techniques
    • Indications and contraindications
  • Vibration
• Gloving technique
  • Precautions against latex allergies
  • Removing used glove in a hygienic way
  • Washing hands before touching client again

Important note: Before you try to put any of these techniques into clinical use, make sure that you are in compliance with any laws or regulations in your area that govern the use of intra-oral techniques.

For example, Washington state requires:

Sixteen hours of direct supervised training [that] must include: Hands-on intraoral massage techniques, cranial anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology; hygienic practices, safety and sanitation; and pathology and contraindications. [1]

Other states or localities have different regulations.

Make sure that you are aware of and follow the appropriate law in your area regarding intra-oral techniques.

UPDATE, 30 October 2012, 12:29 PM ET:

VERY IMPORTANT NOTE: 

For your own personal safety, make sure you only perform this technique on clients/patients who are lucid, with whom you can communicate clearly about what you are doing, and whom you can trust absolutely not to bite you.

There are populations with members who, no doubt, could benefit from this technique, but it is unsafe to put your fingers in their mouths, because there is a very real risk that they might bite your fingers, very hard. These populations include patients with dementia, children with developmental disorders, and others.

Only perform these intra-oral techniques if you are absolutely sure that your client/patient can be trusted not to bite you. If you have any doubt at all about the risk, then it's a good idea to discuss this with the case manager and other healthcare professionals on the client's care team to decide whether or not to offer this treatment. 

cheers, to Susan Salvo!

References

[1] Washington State Department of Health Intraoral Endorsement Application package accessed 28 October 2011