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Thermotex TMJ Hood
For
specific use on the jaw area, this model uses 4 - 3" x
8" infrared pads utilizing 48 watts of power. This model
has 2 adjustable panels and is best suited for treatment
of Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ) giving pain
relief and increasing blood flow to the jaw area.
The
temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or jaw joint is a critical
joint in the proper functional, performance and quality
of the life of a horse. Stress and joint pain can be
demonstrated in horses. A reduction in joint
function is easy for a competent horse dentist and most
owners to assess. As an aid to the treatment of the
temporomandibular joint dysfunction the Thermotex TMJ
hood is extremely effective. The hood is designed with
two heat elements that are directly over the TMJ of the
horse and also has two elements over the muscles of the
upper part of the neck. The intention in the placement
of the primary elements is to provide penetrating heat
to the affected joints and aid in the relief of stress
and connective tissue pain in and around the joint. The
elements on the neck of the horse aid in the relaxation
and softening of the muscles of the poll of the horse.
These muscles are usually affected when a horse is
suffering from temporomandibular joint dysfunction.
Temporomandibular Joint Function in the Horse:
It must first be stated that there has been minimal
scientific investigation into TMJ of the horse. Much of
the information available is from comparisons with human
TMJ issues and a theoretical bio-mechanical model. Field
work with horses, their teeth and their TM joints over
the past 15 years also helps to provide clues as to TMJ
function and the related issues of bits and performance.
This is an area that could provide many answers to neck,
back, gait, and psychological issues for the horse. All
of these obviously affect the performance of the equine
athlete. Horse TMJ issues are unique because we use
their mouth and jaw as a communication point. The
interaction of the bit is moved to the left or right
then the jaw receives lateral pressure to move in that
direction. This movement requires the left and right jaw
joints to move in very different ways. Pain reaction in
the TMJ may be responsible for the horse resisting the
directional cue. The hesitation involved can make the
difference to a first place finish and some other less
desirable outcome. The term "collection" is found
frequently in the horse industry and is used to describe
a very specific posture in the horse. Proper posture and
the relationship of the TMJ are uniquely tied in both
humans and horses. Substantial evidence and
understanding of this posture indicates that it is
primary to many of the movements that are actively
sought by most competitors in the equine world. The ease
with which a horse can be collected may rely heavily on
correct TMJ function.
Typical Case Study:
A middle aged Saddle horse was presented for treatment.
The initial evaluation was difficult and the mare
exhibited a serious pain response when the jaw joints
were palpated as well as a moderately high level of
dental pathology. The mare was flighty and difficult to
deal with initially and could only be managed with the
aid of sedative drugs. A full dental workup to correct
the mare's mouth pathology was undertaken. The treatment
included the reduction of dominant cheek teeth and
proper shaping and balancing of the grinding teeth
(premolars and molars). A full incisor equilibration was
required to establish correct mouth function. The mare's
mouth was brought up to 100% of its functional
potential. The aim of this treatment plan was to
eliminate any conflict between the three main parts of
the dental apparatus. Part 1 is the jaw joint, part 2 is
the muscles of mastication and part 3 is the teeth. At
the conclusion of the treatment the Thermotex TMJ hood
was used on the mare to facilitate her recovery from the
changes in her mouth and reduce any pain in the joints.
One of the complaints of the owner was the inability to
keep the mare on a 12-meter circle. This was critical to
the performance demands that were being placed on the
horse.
Within a week there was a considerable change in the
function of the jaw and the temperament and performance
levels of the mare. The mare was more calm and able to
work comfortably with proper posture and maintain the
circle. More significantly the attitude change and
flighty behavior was very noticeably reduced. Much of
the improvement in performance and attitude is likely
derived from the improved joint function. The mare would
have benefited from the direct reduction of pain in the
mouth but this specific treatment centered on providing
proper mouth balance and function. Proper "three-point"
balance and function is based on the TMJ as one of the
three specific points.
Therapeutic Effects:
The effect of the heat applied with a TMJ hood is to
reduce inflammation in the connective tissues
surrounding the joint. This is the main compelling
feature of the treatment protocol. Reduction of pain
will help the horse to increase the lateral movement of
the jaw, in other words increasing the range of motion
of the joint. This increased range of movement then
improves the overall function to the joint and its
connective tissue as well as the general function of the
masticatory machinery of the horse. As the horse is
better able to relax in its jaw and neck a direct
translation into improved performance is obvious. Better
head sets and easier flexion a the poll will improve
gait and stance of the horse. The therapeutic effect of
the TMJ hood is again enhanced by competent dental work
that goes beyond regular rasping of sharp points and is
designed to promote proper mouth function.
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Availability:
In Stock
Shipping: $15.00
