Cervical trauma as a factor in the development of TMJ dysfunction and facial pain.

AbstractThis essay was written for the purpose of providing insurance companies with an explanation concerning the mechanism by which trauma to the cervical area may result in the development of a temporomandibular joint dysfunction problem. The author has successfully utilized this explanation for a number of years, and presents it when additional information is requested by insurance companies regarding difficult TMJ cases. Many times the patient's chronic “idiopathic” headache and facial pain have been misdiagnosed or undiagnosed for long periods, which affects the possibility of the treated patient's recovering fully. An early diagnosis with proper definitive care will help prevent the sequential effects of cervical trauma on the TMJ and will lead to the alleviation of unnecessary pain.