The jaw joint is commonly referred to as the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ). An umbrella term for the dysfunction of this joint is called a Temporomandibu
lar Joint Disorder (TMD).
TMD can present with a wide variety of symptoms:
- Difficulty chewing/eating
- Pain in the jaw, ear and/or face (headaches/earaches)
- Clicking or popping sensation with opening/closing mouth
- Open/Closed lock jaw
- Jaw deviation on rest or opening/closing
Commonly TMD can be caused by:
- Direct trauma to the face & jaw
- Whiplash
- Dental procedures (i.e. wisdom teeth removal, braces)
- Increased stress/muscle tension
- Overnight grinding of the teeth
- Osteoarthritis
- Poor posture or muscle tension in the neck and upper back
Leading research articles support the role of physiotherapy in managing TMD through treatment techniques which decrease pain and improve active range of motion.
The first step is understanding the underlying causes of your TMJ disorder. The physiotherapist will perform a thorough assessment, looking at the mobility of your jaw, neck, and upper spine, as well as your posture and muscle tension. We will identify whether your TMJ issues stem from muscle imbalances, joint misalignment, or other factors, allowing us to create a personaliaed treatment plan.
Treatment can consist of:
- Manual therapy – soft tissue massage, joint mobilisations and trigger point release to reduce tension
- Dry needing – dry needling points can help reduce pain and clicking in some cases
- Exercise prescription – stretch and strengthening exercises can help with jaw mobility and function by reducing tension around the TMJ. Adherence to the exercises are key to maintaining and improving your TMD, just like any other injuries/conditions.
If you’re suffering from TMJ pain or discomfort, our physiotherapists are here to help. With personalized care and a comprehensive treatment plan, we can reduce your symptoms and help you regain pain-free jaw function. Contact our clinic today to book an assessment and take the first step toward recovery.