How does Physical Therapy help with TMJ Disorders?
By Robin McDaniel, PT, DPT
Do you have a TMJ disorder? Symptoms include jaw pain, facial pain, earache, and tension headaches. You may have difficulty opening or closing your mouth which impacts everyday activities such as speaking, chewing, and smiling. Often patients report their jaw locking in place and the inability to open or close their mouth completely, or a clicking or popping sensation with opening their jaw. I have also recently seen a connection with TMJ tension and dizziness or lightheadedness.
Physical therapy is an important non-invasive treatment option for TMJ disorders that helps alleviate the pain and improve mobility and should be a consideration prior to surgery or injections.
What is TMJ Disorder?
The TMJ is the joint that connects your jaw to your skull, located just in front of your ears on either side of your head. This joint allows for the smooth movement of your jaw during actions like talking, chewing, and swallowing. TMJ disorders, also known as TMD (Temporomandibular Dysfunction), refer to a group of conditions that cause pain, stiffness, and restricted movement in the jaw. TMD can result from various factors, including jaw misalignment, teeth grinding, trauma, stress, or even poor posture.
How Physical Therapy Can Help with TMJ Disorders
Physical therapy is an effective, drug-free approach to treating TMJ disorders. By addressing the root causes of the condition, such as muscle imbalances, joint dysfunction, or poor posture, physical therapy can provide long-lasting relief from symptoms. Here's a breakdown of how physical therapy can help:
- Pain Relief and Inflammation Reduction Physical therapists are trained to use various techniques to reduce pain and inflammation caused by TMJ disorders. Manual therapy, such as soft tissue mobilization and myofascial release, can help alleviate muscle tension and tightness around the jaw. Some patients respond well with dry needling to the muscles that close the jaw. This reduces the overall discomfort that patients experience when chewing, talking, or even at rest.
- Correcting Posture Poor posture is often a contributing factor to TMJ pain, especially if someone habitually slouches or holds their head forward. This is very common in our computer dominated society. When the neck and upper back are misaligned, it can place additional strain on the jaw and surrounding muscles. Physical therapists can assess your posture and design exercises to improve spinal alignment, reducing the strain on your TMJ. Correcting posture can help relieve tension in the jaw and neck, thus improving overall jaw function.
- Stretching and Strengthening Exercises One of the primary focuses of physical therapy is exercise. Physical therapists will teach you specific stretches and strengthening exercises that target the muscles surrounding your TMJ. Stretching exercises help improve the flexibility and mobility of the jaw, allowing it to move freely and without pain. Strengthening exercises target the muscles that control jaw movement, preventing further injury and providing support to the joint.
- Jaw Mobilization Techniques Physical therapists use gentle mobilization techniques to help restore the normal function of the TMJ. These techniques are designed to improve joint movement, reduce stiffness, and enhance overall jaw function. Mobilization can help release tightness within the joint and surrounding muscles, allowing for better movement and less discomfort.
- Reducing Teeth Clenching and Grinding Teeth clenching and grinding (bruxism) are common causes of TMJ disorders. These behaviors often result from stress or anxiety and can place significant strain on the jaw joint. A physical therapist can guide you through relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, and strategies to reduce clenching and grinding.
- Education on Lifestyle Modifications A crucial aspect of physical therapy for TMJ disorders is patient education. Physical therapists provide valuable information about how to avoid activities that may aggravate the condition, such as chewing gum, biting nails, or eating hard foods. They may also recommend techniques to manage stress, which can contribute to muscle tension and jaw pain.
- Improved Function and Mobility The goal of physical therapy for TMJ disorders is not only to reduce pain but also to improve the overall function and mobility of the jaw. With consistent therapy, patients can regain their ability to speak, chew, and move their jaw without pain or discomfort. This can significantly enhance quality of life, as everyday activities become less hindered by TMJ issues.
What to Expect in Physical Therapy for TMJ Disorders
When you visit a physical therapist for TMJ disorder treatment, they will begin with a thorough evaluation to assess the extent of your condition. This includes examining your posture, muscle tension, joint mobility, and any habits that may be contributing to the disorder, such as clenching or grinding your teeth.
After the evaluation, the therapist will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This plan may include a combination of manual therapy, dry needling, exercise, posture correction, and relaxation techniques. Depending on the severity of your condition, physical therapy may be done in the clinic, with follow-up exercises and techniques to practice at home.
Conclusion
Physical therapy is a safe, non-invasive treatment option for those suffering from TMJ disorders. By targeting the muscles, joints, and posture that contribute to the condition, physical therapists can help reduce pain, improve jaw function, and prevent future flare-ups. Whether you’re dealing with jaw stiffness, headaches, or difficulty moving your mouth, physical therapy can provide long-term relief and restore your quality of life. If you’re struggling with TMJ pain, consider consulting a physical therapist to explore how this holistic approach can help you get back to enjoying life without discomfort.