TMJ (Jaw joint) dysfunction
At Therapointe Physiotherapy
Understanding
TMJ Dysfunction
- Muscle tension or imbalance around the jaw and neck
- Teeth clenching or grinding (bruxism)
- Postural strain, particularly forward head posture
- Jaw trauma or dental procedures
- Stress-related muscle tightness
- Arthritis or joint disc displacement
- Jaw pain, tightness, or clicking/popping sounds
- Difficulty or pain when opening or closing the mouth
- Headaches or facial pain
- Ear pain or pressure (not related to infection)
- Neck and shoulder tension
Our Approach to TMJ Physiotherapy
Comprehensive Assessment
Your initial session includes a thorough assessment of jaw movement, muscle tension, joint mechanics, posture, and contributing lifestyle or stress factors. This helps us determine the primary drivers of your TMJ symptoms and develop a tailored plan for your recovery.
Manual Therapy
Hands-on treatment techniques may include gentle joint mobilization, soft tissue release, and myofascial therapy to improve joint alignment, reduce muscle tightness, and relieve pressure on the TMJ and surrounding structures.
Exercise Therapy
We prescribe targeted exercises to improve jaw control, strength, and coordination. These exercises help restore balanced movement between both sides of the jaw and prevent recurrence of symptoms.
Postural & Cervical
Spine Rehabilitation
Since neck and jaw function are closely connected, we also address postural imbalances and neck muscle dysfunction. Correcting posture and cervical alignment can significantly reduce strain on the jaw and improve overall outcomes.
Education & Self-Management
Patient education is a key component of our care. We provide practical strategies for jaw relaxation, ergonomic setup, stress reduction, and avoidance of aggravating habits such as clenching or excessive chewing.
Adjunctive Therapies
Depending on your individual needs, we may incorporate techniques such as dry needling, taping, or collaboration with dental professionals (for splint therapy) to achieve optimal results.
Conditions We Commonly Treat
- Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJD)
- Jaw pain, locking, or restricted movement
- Bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching)
- Myofascial pain of the face, jaw, and neck
- Postural-related jaw and neck pain
- Headaches related to jaw or cervical tension
