CMD, Jaw Physiotherapy

What does CMD stand for?

CMD stands for craniomandibular dysfunction.

What is CMD therapy?

CMD therapy, also colloquially referred to as CMD, is a specialized treatment technique for jaw problems and is a subset of manual therapy. Possible areas of application for CMD therapy include headaches, dizziness, grinding teeth, biting issues, swallowing difficulties, sleep disorders, and restricted jaw joint movement.

Why is there a special treatment for the jaw?

The jaw joint has a unique structure in our body, which is why it requires a special form of therapy. To understand this, one needs to know some background about joints. All major joints in the body are "true" joints, meaning they consist of two bones with an overlaying layer of cartilage, a small joint cavity filled with fluid, and everything is surrounded by a joint capsule. In a true joint, each bone has a specific function, and therefore, all bones differ in their structure at their upper and lower ends. Here lies the significant difference: the jawbone is identical at both ends. Additionally, the jaw joint is rarely subjected to external compressive forces, which makes the biomechanics of this joint significantly different from other joints in the body.

A prescription for CMD therapy can also be issued by a dentist or orthodontist.