Understanding TMJ and TMD: How Physical Therapy Can Help
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull and is one of the most complex joints in your body. This joint allows you to talk, chew, yawn, laugh, and more. However, when problems arise with the TMJ, it can lead to temporomandibular disorders (TMD), which can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw, face, and neck.
Symptoms of TMD
Common symptoms of TMD include:
Jaw pain or tenderness
Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing your mouth
Difficulty chewing or a sensation of the jaw locking
Headaches or earaches
Neck pain and stiffness
How Physical Therapy Can Help
Physical therapy offers a non-invasive, effective approach to managing TMD. A physical therapist can work with you to reduce pain, improve mobility, and restore function to the TMJ. Here are some key benefits:
Pain Relief: Targeted treatments, such as manual therapy and modalities like ultrasound and dry needling, can alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in the TMJ and surrounding muscles.
Improved Mobility and Strength: Exercises designed to stretch and strengthen the jaw can help decrease pain and restore movement and function.
Postural Alignment: Forward head posture and rounded shoulders can place extra strain on the TMJ. Physical therapy addresses posture to reduce stress on the joint.
The Importance of Neck Strength and Mobility
The neck and jaw are closely connected. Weak or tight neck muscles can contribute to TMD symptoms. Physical therapy focuses on improving neck strength and mobility to:
Reduce strain on the TMJ
Improve alignment and support for the jaw
Prevent recurrence of symptoms
Posture and Upper Back Strength
Slouched posture or rounded shoulders can exacerbate TMD symptoms by altering the alignment of the head, neck, and jaw. Physical therapy incorporates:
Postural Exercises: Strengthening the muscles of the upper back and shoulders to improve alignment.
Stretching: Lengthening tight muscles that pull the head and neck forward.
Education: Teaching you how to maintain proper posture during daily activities.
What to Expect During Physical Therapy
During your physical therapy sessions, your therapist will:
Perform a detailed assessment of your jaw, neck, upper back and posture.
Create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your symptoms and goals.
Provide exercises and techniques to do at home for long-term management.
Take the Next Step Toward Relief
If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMD, don’t let them interfere with your quality of life. Physical therapy offers a safe and effective path to relief and decreases the need for surgical intervention.
Contact Advanced Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine today to schedule an evaluation and start your journey to better health and comfort.
Advanced Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine has TMJ / TMD specialists in Appleton, WI (Appleton East, Appleton North, Champion Center), Fond du Lac, WI, Green Bay, WI, Marinette, WI, Neenah, WI, New London, WI, Ripon, WI, Shawano, WI, Stevens Point (Stevens Point North, Stevens Point South), Waupaca, WI.