The orofacial -cervical complex Assessment

Treatment and Management

Harry von Piekartz, Prof, PhD, Msc ,PT, MT (OMPT)

This course provides an extensive foundation in recognizing, examining, and treating temporomandibular disorders (TMD), integrating crucial knowledge of orofacial dysfunction, anatomy, and pain mechanisms. Participants will learn structured physical examination techniques, differential diagnosis skills, and targeted treatment methods for arthrogenic, myogenic, and neurogenic dysfunctions, as well as principles of orofacial motor control. The second part deepens participants’ competence in managing complex cases involving combined temporomandibular and cervical complaints, bruxism, craniopathic pain, and orofacial somatosensory distortions. Practical manual therapy techniques and clinical reasoning through case studies form core elements to ensure effective translation into clinical practice.

Program

Day 1

Section 1

· Introduction, epidemiology, and etiology of orofacial dysfunction and pain

· Functional anatomy of the temporomandibular region

· Palpation of key anatomical reference points in the temporomandibular region and surrounding areas

· Relationships between the temporomandibular region and other cranial structures, including the craniocervical region

Section 2

· Clinical reasoning based on signs and symptoms related to the temporomandibular region

· Pathobiological mechanisms and pain models; basic explanatory models for clinical patterns of the temporomandibular region

· Subjective assessment and preparation for physical examination

· Physical examination: observation and functional analysis of the temporomandibular joint (Part 1)

· Physical examination: physiological movements (Part 2)

Day 2

Section 3

· Physical examination: accessory movements (Part 3)

· Introduction to arthrogenic, myogenic, and neurogenic impairments

Section 4

· Arthrogenic clinical patterns (Disc Displacement with Reduction [DDwR] and Disc Displacement without Reduction [DDwoR]) and their treatment

· Myogenic clinical patterns (Masseter, Temporalis) and their treatment

· Orofacial motor control: assessment and treatment

· Management of temporomandibular dysfunctions (overview)

· Reflection and conclusion

Competencies

Upon completion of Part 1), participants will be able to:

1. Explain foundational concepts regarding the epidemiology, etiology, and pathophysiology of orofacial dysfunction and pain.

2. Describe and apply functional anatomical knowledge of the temporomandibular and craniocervical regions relevant for clinical assessment.

3. Perform a systematic physical examination of the temporomandibular region, including palpation, observation, and assessment of physiological and accessory joint movements.

4. Differentiate clinically relevant patterns of arthrogenic, myogenic, and neurogenic dysfunctions, particularly distinguishing disc displacement with and without reduction.

5. Develop and apply tailored treatment plans for arthrogenic and myogenic dysfunctions of the temporomandibular region.

6. Apply principles of orofacial motor control, integrating appropriate assessment methods and treatment strategies.

7. Engage effectively in clinical reasoning, linking subjective patient history and objective physical findings to develop comprehensive patient management strategies.