Treatment of an Acute Anterior Disk Displacement in the Temporomandibular Joint

The purpose of this case report is to describe the effects of a home exercise program and iontophoretic delivery of an anti-inflammatory agent and an anesthetic in the treatment of a patient with an acute internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). A 71-year-old woman was referred to physical therapy for treatment of an acute anterior displacement of the disk in the TMJ. She received two treatments consisting of iontophoretic delivery of dexamethasone sodium phosphate and lidocaine hydrochloride, and a home exercise program was prescribed. Clinical signs and symptoms were reduced after the first treatment and continued to abate during the course of treatment. Six weeks after treatment, her jaw range of motion remained within normal limits. She also reported being pain free and having resumed eating her regular diet.