Jaw Pain (TMJ Dysfunction)

What Causes Jaw Pain (Temporomandibular Joint Pain)?

Also known as: Temporomandibular Dysfunction (TMD)

TMJ Dysfunction Causes Jaw Pain

Jaw pain is often caused by faulty movements of the temporomandibular joints; commonly known as the TMJ.

If your jaw clicks, locks, grates or is painful you are probably experiencing TMJ dysfunction (TMD). TMD can even be a source of headaches felt in the temporal region.

Did you know... that specially trained Physiotherapists successfully treat jaw pain, clicking and locking.

Commonly, it is thought that the TMJ is solely the domain of dentists, who will often prescribe a bite plate to correct dysfunction. While this may work in some cases it does not work for everyone. Trust us, we see all the cases that don't respond favourably!

At PhysioWorks, we have several TMJ-trained physiotherapists who work with leading dental surgeons, orthodontists and craniomandibular surgeons to correct your TMJ dysfunction.

At PhysioWorks, we can assess your jaw (TMJ) function and inform you whether your jaw issue or headache is TMJ related or not. Amazingly, a lot of the supposed TMJ dysfunction issues are actually caused by stiff neck joints. No wonder the bite plate didn't work!

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How Quickly Does Physiotherapy Cure TMJ Dysfunction?

The good news is that your physiotherapist will start treating your joint dysfunction, muscle tightness or coordination issue that same day. In most cases, you'll leave the clinic with very significant improvement or full resolution after your very first treatment consultation.

Alternatively, if we assess you and discover that your TMJ dysfunction will not respond to physiotherapy, we'll happily refer you to the most appropriate health professional to assist you achieve the quickest result.

If you've suffered a clicking jaw, locking, pain or grating and it won't go away with other treatment options, please call PhysioWorks today and ask for an appointment with one of our TMJ-trained physiotherapists.

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What is Normal TMJ Movement?

TMJ Motion (827 KB)

What are the Common TMJ Dysfunctions?

TMJ Dysfunction - Abnormal Opening

Most TMJ dysfunction that occurs results in an inability to open your jaw normally, fully and evenly (left vs right). Luckily nearly all opening dysfunctions respond extremely quickly and favourably to physiotherapy assessment and intervention since teeth occlusion is not an issue.

TMJ Dysfunction - Abnormal Closing

Closing dysfunction can be due to biota teeth occlusion and an inability of the TMJ to close normally. If the problem is simply a stiff joint or poor muscle timing then physiotherapy treatment will be very successful. However, if teeth occlusion issues are discovered, then you will be referred to a dental surgeon for a bite occlusion assessment.

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How Do We Treat a Dysfunctional TMJ?

After a through examination from a physiotherapist trained in TMJ dysfunction, you will commonly be treated with an individualised treatment program that will include: