TMJ Dysfunction: Causes and Treatment
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint where the skull’s temporal bone connects to the lower jaw bone, known as the mandible. This joint allows for the opening and closing of the mouth, as well as forward, backward, and side-to-side movements. TMJ dysfunction can occur due to issues with the joint itself or tension in the surrounding muscles.
TMJ Treatment at Bodyworks Physical Therapy
At Bodyworks Physical Therapy, we offer specialized treatment for TMJ dysfunction. Our therapists use a combination of techniques to address the root cause of your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Treatment Options for TMJ
- Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques to improve jaw mobility, reposition the disc, and reduce muscle tightness.
- Therapeutic Exercises: Customized exercises to strengthen and stretch the muscles around the jaw joint.
- Education: Information about posture, habits, and activities that can contribute to TMJ dysfunction, along with strategies to manage and reduce symptoms.
- Stress Management: Techniques to reduce stress and tension in the jaw muscles.
- Modalities: Heat, ice, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation may be used to reduce pain and inflammation.
Causes of TMJ Dysfunction
TMJ dysfunction can be caused by various factors, including:
- Trauma: Injury to the jaw or joint area can lead to TMJ dysfunction.
- Bruxism: Grinding or clenching the teeth can put excessive pressure on the TMJ.
- Arthritis: Inflammatory joint disorders like arthritis can affect the TMJ.
- Stress: Emotional or psychological stress can cause muscle tension in the jaw.
- Malocclusion: Misalignment of the teeth or jaw can contribute to TMJ dysfunction.
- Other factors: Poor posture, chewing gum excessively, or chewing on hard objects can also contribute to TMJ dysfunction.
Symptoms of TMJ Dysfunction
Symptoms of TMJ dysfunction may include:
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw, face, ear, or neck.
- Difficulty or discomfort while chewing.
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw joint.
- Locking of the jaw joint, making it difficult to open or close the mouth fully.
- Headaches or migraines.
Still have questions about how TMJ Dysfunction therapy works or if it’s the right option for you?
Contact our team today to learn more and schedule your therapy session.
Drew has been absolutely amazing! He takes the time at every visit to see how I am improving or what needs to be done, both during the visit and for my homework, to help me with my TMJ. He is hands down the best PT I have ever had and will be the only one I go to when I need PT in the future! Highly recommend Drew or any of the physical therapists at Bodyworks PT!
FAQs About TMJ Dysfunction
What causes TMJ dysfunction?
TMJ dysfunction can be caused by trauma, teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), arthritis, stress-related jaw tension, misaligned teeth or jaw, and habits like poor posture or excessive gum chewing.
What are the symptoms of TMJ dysfunction?
Common symptoms include jaw, face, ear, or neck pain and tenderness, difficulty or discomfort chewing, clicking or popping sounds in the jaw, jaw locking, and headaches or migraines.
Can physical therapy help TMJ dysfunction?
Yes. Physical therapy for TMJ typically includes manual therapy to improve jaw mobility and reduce muscle tightness, targeted strengthening and stretching exercises, posture and habit education, and modalities like heat, ice, or electrical stimulation for pain relief.
Can TMJ dysfunction cause headaches?
Yes. Jaw muscle tension and joint dysfunction are common contributors to headaches, and treating the TMJ directly can reduce headache frequency for some patients.
Do I need a referral for TMJ treatment in Fargo?
In most cases, no. Many patients can schedule a TMJ evaluation at Bodyworks without a referral. However, some insurance plans, including Medicare, may require an order or referral from a physician or other healthcare provider. Our team is happy to help you determine what your specific insurance plan requires so you can get started.
How long does TMJ treatment take to work?
Timelines vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of your symptoms. Many patients see improvement in jaw mobility and pain within a few weeks of starting a consistent home and in-clinic program.
Meet Our TMJ Specialists
Zach Thissen
PT, DPT
Sara Metzger
PT, DPT
Drew Zimmerman
PT, DPT
Amanda Helgoe
PT, DPT, Owner
Further Reading on TMJ Dysfunction
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