What is TMJ?

TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jaw to your skull, located just in front of your ear. This joint plays a vital role in everyday activities such as eating, speaking, and yawning. Since it’s constantly in use, the TMJ is exposed to significant forces, making it vulnerable to stress or injury.

The TMJ contains a small disc that cushions the joint, and like other joints, it can become strained or damaged due to trauma or conditions like arthritis. When the TMJ doesn’t function properly, it’s referred to as temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD).

Signs of TMJ Dysfunction:

• Difficulty chewing or yawning

• Pain in the jaw joint or facial muscles

• Locked or restricted jaw movement

• Earache or ringing in the ears

• Popping or clicking sounds

• Headaches and dizziness

What Causes TMJ Dysfunction?

• Jaw injury

• Misalignment of the jaw

• Stress

• Poor posture and neck stiffness

• Teeth grinding or clenching

• Arthritis

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

Pain Relief

One of the main benefits of physiotherapy for TMJ dysfunction is pain management. Physiotherapists use manual therapy techniques like tissue mobilization, myofascial release, and trigger point therapy to relieve muscle tension and improve joint mobility in the jaw and neck.

Improved Jaw Mobility

Physiotherapy includes targeted exercises designed to loosen tight muscles and strengthen weak ones, improving flexibility and reducing discomfort. These exercises help restore proper function and enhance the health of the jaw muscles and joint over time.

Managing and Preventing Symptoms

Beyond immediate pain relief, physiotherapists equip patients with strategies to manage their symptoms between sessions. By learning techniques to manage stress, improve posture, and reduce habits like teeth grinding, patients take an active role in their recovery, helping to prevent symptoms from recurring.

How Long Does Recovery Take?

The time it takes to see results from TMJ physiotherapy varies from person to person. While multiple sessions are typically necessary, the focus is on achieving long-term recovery and preventing future issues rather than offering a quick fix.