Newport Beach TMJ - How does Neuromuscular Therapy differ from regular massage therapy?

Neuromuscular therapy and massage therapy are very different treatments. Neuromuscular therapy does not necessarily mean muscular therapy. This is usually the rehabilitation of nerves and other muscles in the body to help them re-establish their connections with the brain, either from an accident or surgery. On the other hand, massage therapy is the relaxation and rejuvenation of larger muscles in the body. These muscles are most often affected by over use or perhaps a previous injury. There are also methods of therapy available for the muscles in the mouth. They are similar to the various therapies used for other parts of the body. Neuromuscular therapy is better referred to as neuromuscular dentistry. These muscles are specific to the ones that we chew with. This includes the muscles that support the head and neck- how they all interact with the bite, jaw joints, teeth, the airway, as well as the cervical vertebrae upper C-1 and C-2. Over time, if all of these muscles are not working together it will affect most postural muscles as well as organ systems of the body. They must coexist in harmony so as not to disrupt any other functions of the body.

There are subtle symptoms that can disturb the harmonious work of the muscles. These include but are not limited to:

• Burning tongue/mouth
• Altered taste
• Ringing in the ears
• Ear pain
• Numbness of arms/fingers
• Muffled hearing
• Balance
• Blood pressure
• Cortisol (stress hormone)
• Headaches
• Neck aches

The muscles of the mouth must be shown the same care and attention you give the muscles and nerves of your body. Taking good care of these facial muscles will ensure other problems do not arise in other areas in the future. Contact the office of Dr. Andrew Spath and discuss all options regarding your neuromuscular therapy treatment.



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