title: The role of physical therapy in craniofacial pain disorders: an adjunct to dental pain management.
abstract: Treatment of craniofacial pain disorders is often complicated by diverse factors such as acute or chronic trauma and persistent postural changes. In addition, emotional issues and life stress often cloud the recovery process. Physical therapists, with their diverse knowledge base and highly competent treatment skills, can be quite effective in assisting dentists and physicians with management of the many difficult upper quarter and craniofacial pain syndromes. This article reviews the role of myofascial and craniosacral dysfunction, as well as the function of posture, tension, and stress in the development of these syndromes. Additionally, it provides a comprehensive overview of the many evaluative techniques and treatment options that can be provided by today's physical therapists.
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Heinrich
mesh_terms: D002908:Chronic Disease; D004388:Dura Mater / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D007870:Leg Length Inequality; D009209:Myofascial Pain Syndromes / Q000628:therapy*; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D011187:Posture; D013705:Temporomandibular Joint Disorders / Q000628:therapy*