Acute and chronic postural abnormalities as related to craniofacial pain and temporomandibular disorders.

This article has focused primarily on the etiology of CFP and TMD that begins extrinsic to the stomatognathic system and may represent the causative factors behind continued patient complaints after medical and dental intervention. A close professional relationship between the dentist and physical therapist is essential. The knowledgeable physical therapist, through direct interaction with the patient's bodymind, can assist with facilitating change, restoring function, and increasing awareness. New ways of efficiently posturing and moving cannot be learned readily until old bodymind patterns are recognized. From here, the exciting mutual journey of discovery begins and the process continues to unfold for the therapist and client alike.