Treatment of Motion Disorders

Movement disorders are caused by neurological changes in the brain cells which can affect the speed, quality, fluency and ease of movement. There is either an excess of movement, or lack of movement. Movement disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease and Tourette’s syndrome, causes people to have difficulty with talking, walking and performing various other tasks. They can also cause body tremors, which makes simple tasks such as eating and changing your clothes extremely difficult.

Tourette’s Syndrome is a movement disorder that many times presents with a TMJ component. TS can be characterized by vocal tics which could vary from grunting or throat clearing to compulsive swearing and the repetition of vulgar phrases, head jerking, uncontrollable movement, fidgeting and facial tics. The tics caused by the disorder can become more severe during periods of great excitement or stress, and disappear when the person is deeply absorbed or otherwise distracted.

The treatment of TMJ as it relates to Tourette’s Syndrome, Movement Disorders and Tremors involves the creation of an oral appliance to fit to the mouth of the patient. The oral appliance helps relieve the pressure on nerves and blood vessels in the jaw joint area. During the first visit an impression of the patient’s teeth is taken for the creation of the new appliance. Follow up appointments are then required to adjust or fine-tuned the positioning of the appliance to get maximum relieve from the symptoms. Some patients have experienced immediate relief in their symptoms, while others have noticed, over a period of time, a reduction in their symptoms.

If you have been diagnosed with Tourette’s Syndrome or a Movement Disorder and there is a TMJ component, here at the office of Dr. Ragozine we may be able to help you improve your quality of life.