Biofeedback for TM disorders

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Biofeedback for TM disorders

You can use biofeedback to help reduce temporomandibular (TM) disorder-related muscle tension.

Biofeedback uses equipment that monitors muscle tension or skin temperature. Electrodes, which detect electrical current produced by muscle contraction, are placed on jaw muscles. If you clench your teeth or have poor posture, the biofeedback machine produces a signal, such as an upward-pointing arrow or a beeping sound. As you relax, the arrow goes back down or the beeping stops or slows.

You and the biofeedback therapist monitor these visual measurements and learn to recognize when emotional tension makes muscles tight and when relaxation makes muscles loosen. Under the therapist's guidance, you can use this information to learn relaxation techniques for controlling muscle tension and skin temperature.

Biofeedback is a conscious, learned relaxation, and it may not be as effective as hypnosis techniques, which work on the subconscious level. Most habits like jaw clenching and tooth grinding are done unconsciously, often during sleep or times of intense concentration.

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Author	Monica Rhodes
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Arden Christen, DDS, MSD, MA, FACD - Dentistry
Last Updated	January 24, 2008

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Last updated:	January 24, 2008
Author:	Monica Rhodes
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Arden Christen, DDS, MSD, MA, FACD - Dentistry
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC

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