Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD) is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) - the hinge connecting your jawbone to your skull. This joint allows you to speak, chew, and yawn. When it’s not working properly, it can cause pain, discomfort, and functional limitations that impact daily life.
What Causes TMD?
TMD can develop from a variety of factors, including:
- Jaw injury or trauma
- Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
- Arthritis in the TMJ
- Poor posture affecting head and neck alignment
- Stress, leading to increased muscle tension in the jaw
- Malocclusion (misaligned bite)
Common Symptoms of TMD
People with TMD may experience:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw joint
- Headaches or migraines
- Ear pain or ringing (tinnitus)
- Neck and shoulder discomfort
If left untreated, TMD symptoms can worsen over time and interfere with eating, speaking, and overall quality of life.
How Physical Therapy Helps with TMD
Physical therapy provides a non-invasive, drug-free approach to managing TMD. The goal is to reduce pain, restore normal jaw movement, and address contributing factors. A physical therapist may use:
- Manual therapy to improve joint mobility and reduce muscle tension
- Postural training to correct neck and shoulder alignment
- Therapeutic exercises to strengthen jaw and neck muscles
- Soft tissue mobilization to relieve tightness in the surrounding muscles
- Relaxation and stress management strategies to reduce clenching and grinding
- Patient education on habits that can prevent recurrence
Home Management & Prevention
Alongside in-clinic treatment, patients can benefit from:
- Avoiding hard or chewy foods
- Practicing gentle jaw stretches
- Applying heat or ice to reduce pain and inflammation
- Maintaining good posture during work and leisure activities
- Being mindful of teeth grinding, especially during stressful situations
When to Seek Help
If you’re experiencing persistent jaw pain, clicking, or difficulty moving your jaw, a physical therapist can perform a comprehensive evaluation to identify the root cause and develop a personalized treatment plan.
At Core Performance Physical Therapy, our therapists specialize in evidence-based treatments for TMD, addressing both the symptoms and the underlying causes. With targeted manual therapy, exercise, and education, we help patients restore comfort, improve function, and prevent future flare-ups.
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