TMJ Dysfunction Physical Therapy

Profile view of a woman’s jaw and face, highlighting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Physical therapy being performed on the neck and jaw.

TMJ Symptoms & Conditions

Jaw Pain

Soreness or discomfort in the jaw, often worsened by chewing, talking, or yawning

Jaw Clicking

Popping, clicking, or locking of the jaw due to TMJ disc movement or joint issues

Malocclusion

Teeth that don’t align properly, causing jaw strain, grinding, or difficulty chewing.

Headache

Tension or TMJ-related headaches around the temples, behind the eyes, or jaw area, often linked to clenching.

Neck Pain and Stiffness

Neck pain and stiffness can be linked to TMJ dysfunction due to shared muscles and poor posture affecting both areas.

Ear Fullness or Ringing (tinnitus)

Pressure, fullness, or ringing in the ear caused by jaw muscle tension or TMJ irritation.

TMJ Treatment Options

  • Physical therapist performing hands-on jaw and neck therapy on a patient, including soft tissue release and joint mobilization for TMJ relief.

    Manual Therapy

    Skilled hands-on techniques to relieve muscle tension and restore normal motion, including soft tissue release, neck traction, and gentle mobilization of the jaw, neck, and upper ribs.

  • Smiling woman performing jaw exercises for TMJ, demonstrating corrective movements to improve jaw function and posture.

    Corrective Exercises

    Targeted exercises to retrain jaw and neck muscles, improve posture, and restore healthy movement patterns. Includes cervical stabilization, postural therapy, and easy-to-follow self-care techniques.

  • Physical therapist performing dry needling on a patient’s jaw, neck, and shoulder muscles to relieve TMJ-related trigger point pain

    Modalities

    Specialized treatments like dry needling and neuromuscular electrical stimulation to provide reduce pain, calm overactive muscles, and speed up recovery.

Learn more about TMJ Dysfunction

Man blowing bubbles with a friend smiling, representing healthy jaw movement and comfortable chewing and talking.

Learn about temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, including jaw pain, headaches, and other symptoms, and how physical therapy can help.