TMD in Physiotherapy: Clinical Assessment, Reasoning and Evidence-Based Intervention

Practical and evidence-based training for the assessment and intervention of temporomandibular disorders.

30 January – 31 January 2027
15 Hours
Vila Nova de Gaia
Portuguese
Course Trailer
Dr. Hugo Dias

In this course, you will develop essential clinical skills to assess, diagnose, and intervene in temporomandibular disorders, integrating clinical reasoning, a biopsychosocial approach, and evidence-based practice.

Clinical Objectives

  • Understand, in general, the epidemiology, etiology, pathophysiology, and taxonomy of temporomandibular disorders (TMD).
  • Understand the anatomy and biomechanics of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), associated structures, and the cranio-cervico-mandibular complex.
  • Identify risk factors, comorbidities, and conditions frequently associated with TMD, including bruxism, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), and headaches.
  • Perform a subjective and objective assessment of TMD, recognizing red flags and integrating relevant clinical and imaging findings, when applicable.
  • Select and apply evidence-based physiotherapy assessment and intervention strategies for individuals with TMD.
  • Understand the role of the multidisciplinary team in TMD management and know the main complementary therapeutic approaches.
  • Evaluate the relationship between TMD and headaches, applying appropriate assessment and intervention strategies.
  • Perform cervical spine assessment according to current clinical recommendations and guidelines.
  • Apply evidence-based interventions for individuals with cervical pain associated with TMD.
  • Integrate the acquired knowledge in solving clinical cases, developing clinical reasoning and decision-making skills.

Who is this for

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Physiotherapy

Target Audience

  • Physiotherapists

Training Programme

DIA 1

Fundamentals of TMD: Clinical Assessment, Reasoning and Evidence-Based Intervention

09:00 - 17:00
  • Introduction to TMD - Etiology and Epidemiology
  • Anatomy and biomechanics of the TMJ and surrounding structures
  • Taxonomy of TMD
  • Pathophysiology, risk factors, and comorbidities associated with TMD (bruxism, OSAS, headaches)
  • Subjective assessment and clinical history (red flags)
  • Objective assessment (articular and muscular); imaging
  • Treatment and/or management of TMD
  • Evidence-based practice "Physiotherapist's Toolkit"
  • Exploration and practical component of the physiotherapeutic approach to TMD
DIA 2

TMD in Multidisciplinary Context: Headaches, Cervical Spine and Integrated Approach

09:00 - 16:00
  • Multidisciplinary assessment and treatment (biopsychosocial model, use of pharmacology, botox, splints, surgical approach)
  • Relationship, etiology and epidemiology between headaches and TMD
  • Assessment and intervention of the physiotherapist in headaches
  • Cranio-cervico-mandibular relationship with brief introduction to the anatomy and biomechanics of this complex
  • Subjective and objective assessment of the cervical spine based on clinical guidelines
  • Evidence-based physiotherapy intervention for cervical pain
  • Case studies - clinical reasoning and discussion
  • Review of the practical component based on clinical cases (and guided by trainees)
Dr. Hugo Dias

MAIN INSTRUCTOR

Dr. Hugo Dias

Physiotherapy

St. George's University Hospitals, Physio-on: Battersea, Kingston Dental Clinic, Parkside Hospital

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