Nischal Singh

Presentation title: Biomechanical and Neuroanatomical correlates involved in TMJ and Cervical Function and Dysfunction.
Synopsis A plethora of research data exist correlating TMJ pain and dysfunction with cervical pain and dysfunction. In order to elucidate the unique biomechanical and neuroanatomical correlates underpinning TMJ and cervical dysfunction, a thorough understanding of TMJ and cervical function is essential. Using evidence-based data this presentation will aim to highlight the unique neurobiological coupling between the TMJ and cervical apparatus, laying a foundation for the improved understanding of the co-morbidity of TMJ and cervical pain often seen in our orofacial pain patients.

Biography Graduated from University of Melbourne with a Bachelors Degree in Dental Science in 1994. Attained a Masters Degree from Tufts University in 2011 with an emphasis on Craniofacial Pain and Sleep Disorders. Was appointed Adjunct Faculty at Tufts University Craniofacial Pain Centre in Boston, MA from 2011-2014. Attained Distinguished Fellow status with the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain in 2008 after sitting their stringent written examination and treated case presentations. Achieved Diplomate status with the American Board of Orofacial Pain in 2012 (after successfully completing the two separate written and oral examinations). Was made a Fellow of the International College of Dentists (FICD) in 2017. Awarded the Graduate Research Award and the Excellence in Research Award by the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine in 2012 (being the only Australian to win both awards simultaneously) for his research into sleep bruxism.

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Cecilia Yu

Presentation title: The tale of the Neck and the Bite
Synopsis Is it the neck that influences the bite?  or the bite influencing the neck?  In a case of the age old question:  Which came first?  The chicken or the egg?  We’re about to find out.

Biography Dr. Cecilia Yu is a graduate of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (USA) with a major in Biology and a minor in Chemistry.  Continuing on to Parker College of Chiropractic of Dallas, Texas (USA) in 2008.  She practiced in Dallas, Texas for 6 years before deciding to take time off to travel the world. It was through these travels that she fell in love with the Australian lifestyle & people.  Dr. Yu is a Level 3 Candidate (out of 3) for NUCCA Board certification program with the constant goal of perfecting the art of NUCCA to better serve her patients.
Furthermore, Dr. Yu has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Hardin Simmons University (USA) and is a Reiki Master/Teacher. She also holds a certification in Applied Kinesiology and Acupuncture. Dr. Yu understands the importance of balance between Eastern and Western medicine to achieve optimal health.

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Chris Mortensen

Presentation title:Physiokey Bioadaptive Impulse therapy for Head and Neck Pain patients
Synopsis Using head and neck pain as an example this presentation explains how treatment with Physiokey is individualised for each patient for both acute and chronic complaints. Chris explains how the Physiokey enters into a ‘dialogue’ with the body, giving access to the body's regulatory processes, providing rapid pain relief and accelerating healing.

Biography In the field of bioadaptive impulse technology Chris is regarded as one of the world’s most experienced practitioners, educators, and presenters. He has over 18 years of clinical experience using bioadaptive impulse therapy in the treatment of a full range of painful illnesses and conditions. His passion for treating and educating people about this technology has earned him a worldwide reputation and he is sought by patients in Australia and abroad as well as elite and World Champion athletes to treat painful conditions and injuries as well as help facilitate winning performances. As head therapist and co-founder of NS Health Australia, Chris pioneered the bioadaptive impulse therapy clinic concept, operating a successful specialist pain relief clinic in Sydney, Australia since 2004.

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Penelope Jones

Presentation title: Feldenkrais for Head and Neck Pain patients
Synopsis The Feldenkrais Method sees pain and dysfunction as part of a whole body disturbed sensorimotor pattern. To affect longterm healing we need to think of the body more in terms of fractals rather than isolated parts stuck together By slowing down movement with “awareness through movement lessons “or by using hands on neuroplastic learning we address the patterns that will continue to distort good functioning. This approach allows us to address the body as a whole.
Biography Graduated from Sydney University Dental School After working for 5 years in country Australia and London she came back to Australia to teach at the school and then worked for 25 years with Dr Steve Cohn doing exclusively endodontics. In 1988 she spent 4 years at La Trobe University in Melbourne learning about human development, human movement and neuroplasticity. She graduated as a Feldenkrais Practitioner. From these 2 professional trainings she developed her program WORKINGPOSTURE that is a unique way to essentially change neural patterning to reverse and prevent workplace injuries and other chronic pain conditions. She has been teaching her program to private dental practices and dental schools in Australia, UK, Dubai and soon in New Zealand She has also used the Feldenkrais understanding of neuroplasticity in her private practice to help people with Cranio-mandibular pain and dysfunction. In 2000 she was forced to retire for some years following a severe car accident. Since that time she has taught in the medical and dental faculties.

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Karen McCloy

Presentation title: Initial Assessment and Treatment of Patients with Temporomandibular Disorder
Synopsis The Treating patients with temporomandibular disorder can be either the highlight or the darkest black spot of your day. The key to a successful outcome starts with the initial assessment, diagnosis and lifestyle modifications. These are procedures that apply for nearly all patients and the response to these initial interventions can indicate how the case should progress. We will discuss these initial steps.
Biography Karen graduated from dentistry in Queensland in 1984, and works in private practice with her husband at Caboolture. She has completed a Masters of Dental Research at Tufts University in 2011, the Masters of Science in Sleep Medicine at Sydney University in 2013, and is a Diplomat of the American Board of Orofacial Pain. She has been married to Russell for over 30 years, but forgets birthdays and anniversaries on a regular basis, so is never sure of the exact figure. She has three children, none of whom want to be dentists.

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Rochelle McPherson

Orofacial Myologist, Assoc Dip Dent Hygiene

Presentation title: The Role Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy Plays in the TMD and Facial Pain Patient
Synopsis TMD is widely accepted to be a multifactorial disorder: biomechanical, neuromuscular, bio-psychosocial and biological factors contribute to this disorder. Occlusal overloading and parafunctions are frequently involved as biomechanical and neuromuscular factors. TMD patients complain of masticatory muscle fatigue, muscle weakness and orofacial muscle pain. Reducing muscle dysfunction and improving muscle tone and strength can improve facial pain and increase range of motion of the jaw.
Biography Rochelle runs a private, orofacial myology practice in Sydney, OM Health, bringing a unique, holistic approach to patient care. She incorporates a team approach with other health professionals to assist in a greater level of health and well-being. Her special interests include, Orofacial Growth and Development, Orofacial Pain and Sleep Disordered Breathing. Rochelle is a lecturer at the Australian Academy of Orofacial Myology. She speaks both nationally and internationally.

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