Derangement of the temporomandibular joint; a case study using Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy

Abstract

Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT) is widely used for spinal problems, and more recently the principles and mechanical syndromes have been applied to extremity musculoskeletal problems. One of the most common classifications is derangement syndrome, which describes a presentation in which repeated movements causes a decrease in symptoms and a restoration of restricted range of movement. The case study describes the application of repeated movements to a patient with a 7-year history of non-specific temporomandibular pain and reduced function, who had had lots of previous failed treatment. Examination using repeated movements resulted in a classification of derangement, and the patient rapidly responded in 4 treatment sessions, with an abolition of pain and full restoration of function, and remained improved after many years. The case study demonstrates the application of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy principles to a patient with a temporomandibular problem.