TMJ Physio
Canberra

Jaw pain is frustrating, but can be faced head-on with physiotherapy.

Suffering From
Jaw Pain and Dysfunction?

TMJ dysfunction, also known as TMJ disorder, relates to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This is your jaw joint, connecting your jawbone to the skull. It’s a complex structure that contains muscles, tendons, and bones, and can be quite painful if not in full working order.

If you are experiencing symptoms like pain or tenderness in the jaw, clicking or popping sounds, or trouble opening and closing your mouth, you may be dealing with TMJ dysfunction. Thankfully, support is available.

What is
TMJ Dysfunction?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is made up of a few different parts, including the bone below the mouth, known as the jawbone or mandible, and the bone above the mouth, called the maxilla. This overall structure allows the lower and upper jaw to close, and is responsible for a range of necessary movements including chewing, speaking, and yawning.

When the TMJ is working correctly, it functions as a hinge, allowing the jaw to move around – up and down, side to side, and so on – without any issues. With TMJ dysfunction, this operation isn’t as smooth. The jaw and related muscles have malfunctioned in some way, causing a range of symptoms.

But what actually causes this dysfunction? The exact cause of each case can be difficult to pinpoint, as there is often a combination of factors at play. But usually, we can identify one or more of the below causes.

Jaw Injuries

TMJ dysfunction can be caused by direct trauma to the jaw, head or neck resulting from injuries or other incidents, such as car accidents.

Teeth Grinding

Chronic teeth grinding or clenching, known as bruxism, can apply extreme pressure to the TMJ, leading to dysfunction and inflammation.

Misalignment

Dysfunction can be caused by various structural or dental issues, including misalignment of the jaw or teeth, such as an underbite.

Arthritis

Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, can cause the TMJ to wear down over time, creating pain and dysfunction.

Connective Tissue Disorders

The TMJ is also more prone to dysfunction as a result of conditions that affect connective tissues, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

Stress and Poor Posture

Several common conditions also boost the risk of TMJ dysfunction, including muscle tension and teeth grinding caused by stress.

What Are The
Symptoms of TMJ Dysfunction?

If you have a TMJ disorder or dysfunction, you may experience one or more of the symptoms below. However, they vary widely from person to person, depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition.

Jaw Pain and Tenderness

Pain on one or both sides of the jaw joint is one of the most common symptoms. This pain may also radiate to the ear, neck, or temples.

Ear Pain and Ringing

TMJ dysfunction may cause various forms of ear pain, including ringing or a feeling or fullness. This is due to the jaw’s proximity to the ear canal.

Headaches

Muscle and jaw tension caused by TMJ can also trigger headaches, particularly those that start at the temples or the base of the skull.

Clicking or Popping Sounds

People with TMJ dysfunction may experience a clicking or popping sound, or grating feeling, when opening or closing their mouth.

Locking of the Jaw

TMJ dysfunction sometimes leads to the jaw ‘locking’ in an open or closed position, making movement of the jaw and mouth difficult.

Facial Pain or Trouble Chewing

TMJ disorders may cause a range of other symptoms, including swelling or pain around the jawline and cheeks, or difficulty chewing food.

Treatments for
TMJ Pain and Disorders

If you are experiencing TMJ symptoms, your first course of action may be more conservative, with solutions including resting your jaw, applying ice or heat, and seeking out over-the-counter or prescribed medications.

If symptoms persist, we recommend booking an appointment with a physiotherapist. At Powerhouse Physio, we provide a thorough service involving detailed assessments, a tailored treatment plan, and wide-ranging support, including collaboration with other healthcare professionals in case advanced treatments are required.

Detailed Examination

Your physiotherapist will perform a thorough assessment to determine the location and severity of your symptoms.

Tailored Treatment Plan

Your treatment may address several factors, including posture and movement patterns between your jaw, neck, and upper back.

Manual Therapy

Your physiotherapist may perform hands-on therapy including mobilisation of the jaw and soft tissue massage.

Strength Exercises

You may be prescribed exercise routines for strengthening muscles and releasing tension via a range of upper-body stretches.

Posture and Stability

You may receive information and advice for managing stiffness, correcting postural habits, and improving stability.

Referrals and Collaboration

Your treatment plan may include referrals to or collaboration with other healthcare professionals, from dentists to GPs.

Frequently
Asked Questions

If I have pain in my jaw, do I have a TMJ disorder?

Not necessarily. There are a few reasons why you may be experiencing pain, including stiffness in your neck or posture, clenching or grinding of the teeth, or a blow to the jaw while playing sport. Factors like these can cause TMJ dysfunction, but they don’t always lead to it. If in doubt about your jaw pain or other symptoms, always seek out a health professional.

Do TMJ disorders require surgery?

Typically, TMJ dysfunction and the pain it causes can be managed through non-surgical treatments, such as physiotherapy. If you are experiencing TMJ dysfunction, we recommend seeking professional health advice and following your treatment plan. Some individuals with TMJ dysfunction may benefit from surgery if more conservative measures haven’t worked.

What do people do at home to relieve TMJ pain?

If you see a physiotherapist for TMJ dysfunction, they will most likely recommend manual treatments to do at home, including stretching and other exercises. Some individuals with TMJ dysfunction may also benefit from general stress management techniques, such as meditation or counselling, or lifestyle changes such as dietary modifications.

What Do We
Offer?

Tailored Treatments

Our team will take care to consider your specific symptoms, concerns, and medical history. Whether you need soft tissue therapy or posture suggestions, we’ve got it covered.

Medical Networks

Our physiotherapists are supported by a team of surgeons, medical specialists, and other healthcare practitioners who are only ever a phone call away.

Care in Canberra

With Powerhouse Physio, discover world-class care in your local community. You can visit us from Monday to Friday at the National Hockey Centre in Lyneham, ACT.

There’s No Need To
Struggle With TMJ Pain

The humble jaw is one of the most powerful joints in the human body, and is in use almost constantly. If you are experiencing TMJ dysfunction, it’s likely very frustrating, painful, and affecting your quality of life.At Powerhouse Physio, we can help you get to the bottom of your jaw pain. Get in touch today to organise an assessment with our friendly and experienced physiotherapist team.

TMJ Physio Canberra

Suffering From Jaw Pain and Dysfunction?

What is TMJ Dysfunction?