TMJ Treatment

TMJ disorder can affect one or both sides of your jaw and may cause pain that extends beyond the joint itself, such as into your ears, head, and neck. It can significantly affect everyday activities such as eating and speaking.

Symptoms

• Clicking or popping in the jaw
• Muscle spasms or a locked jaw
• Facial swelling or tenderness near the ear
• Tooth or ear pain
• Headaches or neck pain
• Difficulty eating

Causes

• Teeth grinding or clenching (also known as bruxism)
• Dental work or jaw injuries
• Sports injuries or car accidents
• Arthritis or disc problems
• Bite issues (overbite, underbite)
• Poor neck posture

How We Treat TMJ Disorder

Every treatment plan is personalised to you. Depending on your symptoms and goals, your physiotherapist may draw on one or more of the following approaches.

1. Joint Mobilisation – Gentle techniques to restore jaw movement, reduce stiffness, and relieve pain.
2. TMJ Massage – Targeted massages to relax surrounding muscles, ease tension, and improve circulation.
3. Dry Needling – Targets muscle knots and trigger points to release tension and restore blood flow.
4. Neck Treatment – Addressing underlying neck issues that may be contributing to your jaw pain.
5. Heat Therapy – Applied heat to reduce muscle tension, improve flexibility, and support healing.
6. Home Advice – Guidance on exercises, posture, sleeping positions, and dental referrals where needed.

What To Expect

Your first appointment at PhysioChoice will begin with a thorough review of your health history and a detailed assessment of your jaw's movement. This allows us to pinpoint the source of your pain and identify any functional restrictions.

Ongoing sessions are built around your individual progress and goals. Your physiotherapist will use one or more of our treatment techniques (such as mobilisation, massage, or dry needling) to resolve your pain and restore full jaw function.