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Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) dysfunction is a common condition that can cause jaw pain and headaches. Affecting the joint that connects your jaw to your skull, TMJ disorders can develop from factors such as physical habits, stress, or injury. If left untreated, symptoms may worsen and impact everyday activities like eating and speaking. Our Physiotherapists at Shailer Park provide evidence-based assessment and treatment to help identify the underlying causes of TMJ dysfunction and support long-term recovery through targeted therapy and rehabilitation.
What is the TMJ?
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jawbone to the skull.
The TMJ functions to open & close the mouth, chew, speech articulation and force distribution.
What is TMJD?
People often say that they have “TMJ” when they really mean TMJ disorder (TMD)—problems with the jaw joint & surrounding muscles.
TMJD’s Common Symptoms
- Jaw pain or soreness
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds in the jaw
- Difficulty or pain when chewing
- Jaw locking (open or closed)
- Ear pain, headaches, or facial pain
TMJD Causes
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Jaw injury
- Arthritis
- Stress-related muscle tension
TMJD Physiotherapy Assessment
Our skilled physiotherapists at Shailer Park will gather a thorough history to understand your problem. During a comprehensive physical examination, our skilled physiotherapist at Loganholme will assess your Range of Motion at your jaw and neck region, your jaw strength and also joint and muscle palpation. They will discuss your:
- Pain – where the pain is, when it occurs & the type of pain that you’re dealing with.
- Range of Motion – if you have difficulty opening the mouth, jaw locking, or jaw stiffness.
- Joint Sounds – clicking, popping, grinding.
- Habitual Factors – clenching or grinding teeth, chewing gum frequently, and stress.
- Associated Symptom – headaches, ear fullness, ringing in the ears, neck or shoulder tension.
TMJD Treatment Options
Your physiotherapist in Shailer Park will discuss appropriate treatment options, ranging from:
• Hands-on Manual treatment to relieve muscle tightness & joint stiffness.
• Jaw range of motion & strengthening exercises.
• Advice & education to avoid aggravating your problem.
• Referral to your GP or dentist for nighttime mouth splinting to reduce clenching & medication.
• In rarer cases, injections to reduce muscle spasm & pain can be considered if not responding to conservative treatment.
Ring 07 3132 0898 to get personalised recommendations for TMJ.
References
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15066-temporomandibular-disorders-tmd-overview
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