Presented by Mr. Mark Oliver (certified Mulligan concepts teacher), this 2-day practical workshop provides participants with new examination and treatment skills for orofacial pain and temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) based on the Mulligan Concept of mobilisation with movement. Mobilisation with movement is one of the most popular approaches physiotherapists use to treat neuromusculoskeletal conditions. Mark has presented Mulligan courses for over 30 years and assisted Brian Mulligan worldwide on numerous occasions. The approach is easy to learn and integrate into existing examination and treatment models. A substantial body of research supports the concept.

Appropriately trained physical therapists can significantly contribute to the management of temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD). This two-day practical workshop is an advanced course for clinicians (physical therapists, osteopaths, chiropractors, medical practitioners) who have completed a basic Mulligan course.  

A health professional working in the field of orofacial pain must have a sound knowledge of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and orofacial anatomy, relevant neurophysiology, pain neuroscience and the contribution of spinal dysfunction to TMD. They must also be able to perform a detailed clinical examination and develop an effective treatment plan within a biopsychosocial context. Physical therapists treating orofacial pain and TMD must have a sound appreciation of dental management and fit into a multi-disciplinary treatment team.

Physical therapists can expand their knowledge of anatomy, biomechanics, neurophysiology and pathology using e-learning or books. Still, the in-person course is the most effective way to grasp clinical reasoning concepts and master “hands-on” skills. This course will equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to perform accurate, precise TMJ evaluation and treatment.

Participants will learn original TMJ MWM techniques developed by the presenter to treat: 

• Acute malocclusion
• Retrodiscal pain
• Loss of mobility due to internal derangement, degenerative change, intra-articular adhesions
• Restoration of function following orofacial surgery
• Altered neuromotor activity.

"Just passing on some feedback about the Mulligan's Orofacial/TMJ course - it was well worth the wait.

Mark is a fabulous presenter with the patience of a saint. His means of conveying the material made it easy to take in and understand. The catering was also excellent."

SueLin Kalisch - Physiotherapist

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this course, participants should;

• Have a good understanding of the applied anatomy of the orofacial bony, ligamentous and neuromuscular systems as they relate to the TMJ

• Have an appreciation of relevant neuroscience and pain neuroscience relating to the TMJ and orofacial region

• Have an understanding of the etiology of TMJ neuromusculoskeletal disorders

• Have a good understanding of how whole-body function and posture can contribute to TMJ dysfunction

• Be aware of the current literature related to physical examination and treatment of the TMJ (up-to-date reference list provided)

• Have a good understanding of the Mulligan concept of MWM and its clinical reasoning process 

• Be able to confidently perform a basic evaluation of the TMJ and related orofacial musculature

 • Be able to perform basic TMJ MWW and self–MWM treatment techniques

 • Be able to design and implement individualised neuromuscular exercise and “brain game” programs for the TMJ and, when indicated, integrate them into a whole-body exercise program

• Have an appreciation of how physical therapists should fit into a multi-disciplinary team treating TMD

• Be aware of other relevant forms of treatment for orofacial pain and dysfunction in a biopsychosocial context.

AAP Education Rural & Remote Scholarship

If you work in a designated rural and remote region, 4 - 7 using the Modified Monash model, you may select an AAP Education rural and remote position for this course. Places are provided on a first-come basis.

Rural & Remote Professional Development Support

See Rural Workforce Support Agencies for details in your state or territory.