The temporomandibular joint connects your jaw to your skull. If there is an injury to this joint or it becomes damaged in any way, TMJ dysfunction may develop. Temporomandibular joint dysfunction, also known as TMJ dysfunction, is a condition that causes pain and stiffness of the jaw joint and its surrounding muscles. The temporomandibular joint is a complex and important structure comprised of bones, tendons, and muscles that may cause you to feel pain on one or both sides of the jaw. This can make it very difficult to open your mouth, talk, yawn, and chew.
If you are having difficulty chewing or yawning, have jaw pain, or hear a clicking noise when you open and shut your mouth, you could have TMJ dysfunction. Request an appointment with PhysioWorks to find relief for your TMJ dysfunction with physical therapy.
How can I tell if I have TMJ Dysfunction?
There is no single method or surefire way of diagnosing TMJ dysfunction. If you believe you may be suffering from this condition, a medical professional will analyze your medical history and perform a physical exam. Your physician may also send you to an otolaryngologist or a dentist specializing in jaw disorders.
The idea is to rule out other medical problems before diagnosing the patient with TMJ dysfunction, as the symptoms may also be due to a condition known as trigeminal neuralgia, salivary gland disease, or even swollen lymph nodes. Once your diagnosis has been determined, you will be treated based on the nature of your symptoms.
Symptoms of this TMJ dysfunction include pain in the jaw, jaw popping, headaches, sore jaw muscles, locking of the jaw, pain in the temple, and earaches. There are many reasons why TMJ dysfunction may develop, but some common causes include misalignment of the teeth, gum chewing, arthritis, teeth grinding, or a jaw injury.
How Will Physical Therapy Help with My TMJ Dysfunction?
Many people might not know where to star when they have jaw pain, they might try over-the-counter pain relievers like Ibuprofen, ice/heat packs applied to the jaw or neck, or massage techniques to provide temporary relief. When these don’t work, medical options may include prescription muscle relaxers, dental splints to prevent teeth grinding, or in some severe cases, procedures like trigger point injections or TMJ arthroscopy.
But, what if we tried PT first!? Physical therapy offers a more comprehensive, hands-on approach that addresses the root causes of TMJ dysfunction rather than just masking symptoms. At PhysioWorks, we understand that jaw pain rarely starts with the jaw alone.
What to Expect at Your TMJ Physical Therapy Evaluation
At your initial appointment, our physical therapist will perform a thorough assessment that goes beyond just your jaw. We examine your posture, postural awareness, neck/upper back strength, proprioception and movement patterns, as well as jaw mobility and function.
Your Customized TMJ Treatment Plan
Based on your evaluation findings, our physical therapist will create a personalized treatment plan that may include; Postural Strength training, Proprioceptive training, Jaw Mobility, Manual Therapy techniques, as well as Exercise Ergonomics and Lifestyle Modifications. The goal of physical therapy is to restore normal function and proper interaction between your jaw muscles, joints, neck, and upper back.
If you’re experiencing jaw pain, clicking, headaches, or injured your neck in a car accident; physical therapy at PhysioWorks can help you find long-term relief without relying on medication or invasive procedures.
Contact us today to schedule your TMJ evaluation and start your journey toward a pain-free jaw!
Contact PhysioWorks for relief:
Our physical therapists are patient-centric and committed to your health, working hard to help you manage and eliminate symptoms. If you are in Silverdale or Kent, WA suffering from the symptoms of TMJ dysfunction, request an appointment at PhysioWorks. Don’t suffer from jaw pain and stiffness any longer.
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free!