How Physical Therapy Can Help with Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Pain

Do you struggle with jaw pain, clicking, or difficulty opening your mouth? You might be experiencing TMJ dysfunction—a common but often overlooked condition that affects the jaw joint and surrounding muscles.

The good news? Physical therapy can be a highly effective, non-invasive treatment for TMJ-related pain and dysfunction.

What Is TMJ?

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, which connects your jawbone to your skull. You have one on each side of your jaw, and it plays a vital role in everyday activities like chewing, speaking, and yawning.

When this joint becomes inflamed, misaligned, or overworked, it can lead to a group of symptoms known as TMJ disorder or TMD.

Common Symptoms of TMJ Dysfunction:

• Jaw pain or tenderness

• Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds with jaw movement

• Difficulty opening or closing the mouth fully

• Headaches or earaches

• Pain when chewing or speaking

• Neck and shoulder tension

• Locking of the jaw (open or closed position)

  
  

What Causes TMJ Dysfunction?

TMJ issues can develop from various factors, including:

• Poor posture, especially forward head posture

• Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)

• Jaw misalignment or bite issues

• Stress, leading to muscle tension

• Injury or trauma to the jaw or head

• Arthritis affecting the joint

  
  

How Can Physical Therapy Help?

Physical therapists are trained to evaluate the muscles and joints involved in TMJ function. A personalized treatment plan can address the root cause of your symptoms—not just the pain.

Here’s how physical therapy can help with TMJ:

🔹 Manual Therapy

Hands-on techniques to release tight muscles, mobilize the TMJ, and reduce pain.

🔹 Postural Training

Many TMJ issues stem from poor head, neck, and shoulder posture. PT can help restore proper alignment.

🔹 Jaw Exercises

Targeted exercises can improve jaw mobility, control, and strength while decreasing tension.

🔹 Pain Management

Modalities like ice/heat, ultrasound, or dry needling (if appropriate) may be used to reduce inflammation and discomfort.

🔹 Education

Your PT will teach you techniques to reduce clenching, improve daily habits, and avoid triggers.

When to See a Physical Therapist

If jaw pain, stiffness, or clicking is interfering with your daily life—or if you’ve tried other treatments without relief—consider seeing a physical therapist who specializes in TMJ care.

Early intervention can prevent symptoms from worsening and help you get back to eating, talking, and living comfortably.

Ready to Find Relief?

We offer personalized TMJ evaluations and treatment plans to help you manage pain, restore jaw function, and improve quality of life—without surgery or medication.

📞 Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward relief.