Trismus

From WikiMD's Wellnesspedia

Trismus is a medical condition characterized by the inability to open the mouth fully due to a reduced range of motion in the jaw joint. This condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including trauma, infection, and certain medical treatments.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Trismus can be caused by a variety of factors. These include:

  • Trauma: This can include physical injury to the jaw or surrounding tissues, or damage caused by surgical procedures.
  • Infection: Infections in the mouth or throat, such as tonsillitis or peritonsillar abscess, can cause trismus.
  • Medical treatments: Certain medical treatments, such as radiation therapy for head and neck cancers, can cause trismus as a side effect.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The primary symptom of trismus is the inability to open the mouth fully. This can make it difficult to eat, speak, or maintain oral hygiene. Other symptoms can include:

  • Pain in the jaw or surrounding muscles
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Changes in speech

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for trismus depends on the underlying cause. This can include:

  • Physical therapy: This can help to improve the range of motion in the jaw.
  • Medication: Pain relievers and muscle relaxants can help to alleviate symptoms.
  • Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem.

See also[edit | edit source]


Trismus Resources

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Contributors: Bonnu, Prab R. Tumpati, MD