CEA Nursing Practice Exam

Which symptom is NOT commonly associated with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder?

1. Pain and tenderness with palpation

2. Facial asymmetry with unilateral pain

3. Palpable swelling and tenderness of the joint

4. Relief from pain with joint displacement

The correct answer is: Relief from pain with joint displacement

The symptom of relief from pain with joint displacement is not commonly associated with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. In TMJ disorders, individuals typically experience pain that does not improve significantly with joint manipulation or displacement. Instead, many patients report an exacerbation of pain or discomfort when the joint is moved or subjected to stress. In contrast, symptoms such as pain and tenderness with palpation, facial asymmetry with unilateral pain, and palpable swelling are well-documented indicators of TMJ disorders. These symptoms arise from the inflammation and dysfunction of the joint, which can lead to pain during movement, difficulty in jaw function, and visible changes in the facial structure. Therefore, the lack of pain relief with joint displacement highlights how TMJ disorders manifest in a way that is predominantly characterized by discomfort rather than alleviation through movement.