Temporomandibular disorders represent one of the most clinically underserved presentations in musculoskeletal and neurological practice. With a population prevalence approaching 12%, TMD generates a complex overlap of orofacial pain, cervical dysfunction, headache, and referred pain that routinely confounds standard diagnostic approaches. Yet the evidence base for structured, multidisciplinary clinical management of TMJ dysfunction has never been stronger. This course positions licensed clinicians to lead that evaluation with confidence.

TMD: Clinical Neurology and Examination delivers an 8-hour, evidence-based training program built around the full clinical arc of TMJ assessment and management. Beginning with foundational anatomy and neurological pain science, the curriculum moves through a systematic physical examination protocol, including the proprietary Illes-10 TMJ Examination Checklist, mandibular range of motion assessment, joint load testing, cranial nerve evaluation, and intraoral and extraoral muscle palpation. Clinicians then progress through differential diagnosis of pain referral sources, including vascular, neoplastic, pulmonary, and otologic origins, before applying targeted management strategies that integrate cervical spine intervention, myofascial techniques, postural rehabilitation, and patient education.

This course is designed for chiropractors, physical therapists, and other licensed manual therapy clinicians who regularly encounter patients with jaw pain, craniofacial pain, headache, or cervical dysfunction and who recognize that a more sophisticated diagnostic framework will meaningfully change patient outcomes. No dental background is required. The content is calibrated for clinicians who already understand musculoskeletal examination and are ready to extend that competency into the craniofacial region.

Dr. Jennifer Illes brings an exceptionally rare combination of clinical credentials to this training: practicing chiropractor, registered nurse, medical acupuncturist, and Assistant Professor with two master’s degrees in applied clinical neuroscience and health services administration. Her approach integrates neurological rigor with practical, hands-on clinical skill, providing a framework that is immediately applicable to real patient presentations from the first session forward.