Included in the Evaluation: 1.Comprehensive Health History & Fascial System Review • Client Intake: Gather a full history of: *Dental work (orthodontics, surgeries, appliances) *History of jaw trauma, clenching/grinding, facial injuries *Symptoms such as jaw pain, neck pain, tension headaches Sleep quality, breathing patterns, and chronic oral habits (e.g., nail biting, mouth breathing, gum chewing) • Fascial Considerations: Educate on how restrictions in the fascial system, especially through the neck, jaw, and head can influence posture, muscular tension, and jaw mobility. 2. TMJ Anatomy & Functional Overview: Review the structure and motion of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), including: • Key structures: Mandibular condyle, articular disc, temporal bone • Involved musculature: Masseter, temporalis, medial/lateral pterygoids, digastric, suprahyoid group, platysma • Movement patterns: Observe and assess opening/closing, lateral movement, and protrusion. Note quality, smoothness, and presence of deviation or asymmetry. 3. Neuromuscular Influences on TMJ Function: Identify muscular habits and patterns that may contribute to dysfunction: • Low or forward tongue posture Open-mouth rest posture or lip incompetence. • Chronic overuse of accessory muscles (e.g., SCM, mentalis, platysma) • Muscle tension patterns originating from neck and upper thoracic structures. • Evidence of tethered or restricted soft tissue affecting mobility (to be referred out for further evaluation if needed) 4. Range of Motion & Muscle Assessment • Measure Functional ROM: *Track measurements of: Mouth opening (comfortable vs. max). *Lateral excursion (side to side) *Jaw protrusion •Muscle Mapping: Note any: *Trigger points or tenderness *Restrictions or hypertonicity *Imbalance between sides 5. Review of Treatment Plan & Home Education • Manual Therapy Objectives: *Reduce muscular hypertonicity *Improve fascial glide and circulation *Restore neuromuscular coordination of jaw movements • Therapist-Guided Home Program May Include: *Self-massage techniques for jaw and neck. *Postural awareness (jaw rest position, relaxed tongue position). *Gentle breathing retraining (nasal, diaphragmatic focus). *Movement-based cues to discourage clenching and bracing patterns. •Collaboration & Referral Network: When appropriate, coordinate with dentists, ENTs, bodyworkers, or other professionals for integrated care (e.g., orthodontic support, airway concerns, myofunctional therapy, etc.)