Physical therapy can be a beneficial treatment option for many conditions, including facial and jaw muscles and supporting structures. Physical therapy can be an effective treatment option for pain associated with the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ). Before beginning any type of exercise or stretching routine, you should consult with a qualified healthcare professional who can educate and guide you on the proper way to perform the exercises. Learn more about how physical therapy can help provide pain management for TMJ, who might benefit from PT for the TMJ, and some beneficial exercises that can help to reduce TMJ pain.
The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is a pivotal, hinge-like joint that connects the jawbone (or mandible) to the temporal bone of the skull, located just in front of each ear. This joint is responsible for facilitating essential oral functions such as:
As one of the most complex joints in the human body, the TMJ allows both rotational (up and down) and translational (side to side) movements. Its importance cannot be overstated — without a properly functioning TMJ, tasks as basic as eating or talking could become painful or even impossible. The health of this joint plays a crucial role in overall oral health and facial comfort, and can even impact the neck and inner ear.
TMJ pain can be a result of many different factors, but some of the common causes of TMJ pain can be attributed to:
Pain, difficulty in chewing, and clicking or popping sounds while opening or closing the mouth are some of the common symptoms of the TMJ. While clicking and popping can be normal, it shouldn’t be associated with pain. An overlooked muscle that plays a significant role in TMJ pain and disorders is the masseter. When this muscle is overworked or becomes tight, it can result in masseter pain and significantly contribute to TMJ discomfort.
Physical therapy for the TMJ primarily focuses on relaxing and strengthening the muscles surrounding the jaw to alleviate pain. By emphasizing exercises tailored to this region, PT helps to increase mobility, reduce muscle tension, and mitigate the symptoms of TMJ disorders.
Physical therapy for the TMJ can benefit a wide range of individuals, including individuals who are experiencing many of the symptoms we outlined earlier including:
Those who experience symptoms such as jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds during jaw movement, difficulty in chewing, or jaw locking can benefit directly from targeted PT interventions.
Individuals who habitually grind (bruxism) or clench their teeth, often during sleep, can experience increased tension in the jaw muscles. Physical therapy can help alleviate this tension and offer strategies to reduce these habits.
After surgical procedures on the jaw or face, PT can help restore mobility, reduce post-operative swelling, and ensure proper alignment and function of the jaw.
Individuals who’ve suffered facial or jaw injuries due to accidents, falls, or any other trauma can benefit from PT to regain proper jaw function and reduce pain.
Arthritis can affect any joint, including the TMJ. Physical therapy can help manage pain, improve mobility, and offer exercises to maintain joint health.
Sometimes, the root cause of chronic headaches or earaches can be traced back to TMJ issues. In such cases, addressing the TMJ dysfunction through PT can alleviate these symptoms. Anyone experiencing pain, discomfort, or functional issues related to the jaw, face, or associated structures might benefit from physical therapy tailored to address the TMJ and its surrounding musculature. It’s essential to have a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional to determine the root cause of the symptoms and to establish an appropriate treatment plan.
If you’re grappling with Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) discomfort, relief might be closer than you think. The following is a curated list of physical therapy exercises specifically designed to target TMJ-related issues, promoting improved function and comfort. Before beginning any exercise or stretching routine, you should consult with a qualified healthcare professional to receive guidance on how to perform the exercises.
To begin this exercise, you want to be in a seated or standing position. Begin by placing your tongue on top of your mouth behind your upper front teeth. Gently open and close your mouth and relax your jaw muscles. Repeat for ten repetitions.
To begin this exercise, you want to be in a seated or standing position. Begin by pulling your chin straight back, creating a “double chin”. Hold this position for five seconds and then slowly return to the starting position. Repeat for ten repetitions.
To begin this exercise, place your thumb or two fingers under your chin while your mouth is closed. Begin to open your mouth slowly while applying gentle pressure with your thumb or fingers. Hold for five seconds and then close your mouth. Repeat for ten repetitions.
To begin this exercise, place your thumb or two fingers on your chin with your mouth open. Begin to close your mouth slowly while applying gentle resistance with your thumb or fingers. Hold for five seconds and then relax. Slowly return to the starting position with your mouth open and then repeat for ten repetitions.
To begin this exercise, you want to use your index and middle fingers to massage the masseter muscle which is the thick muscle on both sides of your jaw. Place your fingers on the muscle and gently begin massaging in a circular motion for a minute.
Seeking treatment for TMJ pain with physical therapy and using the exercises above can help to alleviate pain and prevent TMJ pain. In addition to utilizing good habits like avoiding excessive gum chewing, maintaining proper posture, and managing stress, physical therapy can be a beneficial treatment option for those who are looking to prevent or alleviate TMJ pain. Find a physical therapy clinic near you at one of our nationwide clinics and request a physical therapy appointment to see how one of our physical therapists can help you with TMJ pain.
