TMJ Compression Test: Assessing Jaw Joint Pain

The TMJ Compression Test, or Loading Test, is a manual assessment used to provoke pain in the Temporomandibular Joint. It helps identify inflammation in the retrodiscal tissues or issues with the joint surfaces.

[Image of TMJ Compression Test procedure]

1. Purpose

The primary purpose of the TMJ Compression Test (also known as the TMJ Loading Test) is to **assess for pain or pathology** within the Temporomandibular Joint. Specifically, it loads the joint to check for retrodiscal tissue irritation (synovitis) or articular surface damage.

2. How to Perform

1. The patient is positioned in sitting or supine with the head supported in a neutral position.
2. The examiner places their hands (thumbs or webs of hands) under the patient's mandible (chin). (Be careful not to compress the throat/trachea).
3. The examiner applies a gentle but firm upward (superior) and slightly posterior force.
4. This action loads the mandibular condyles into the glenoid fossa of the temporal bone.

3. Positive & Negative Sign

Positive Sign (Test is POSITIVE):
A positive test is indicated by the reproduction of pain within the TMJ.

• This suggests inflammation of the retrodiscal tissues or damage to the joint surfaces.

Negative Sign (Test is NEGATIVE):
A negative test is a feeling of pressure without pain.