The point where the lower jaw attaches to the skull is called the Temporomandibular Joint “TMJ” This joint is located in front of your eyes on both sides of your head. Like most joints in the body, good alignment and range of motion are required to keep this joint working properly.

Large muscles attach your jaw to your skull to help you open and close your mouth, and move it side to side for taking and chewing. A number of reasons can cause these muscles to become overused, which results in pain, fatigue, and/or tension. When the joint does not work properly or causes pain, Doctors use the term “TMD” or Tempormandibular Joint Disorder.

Symptoms Include:

Jaw pain

Neck pain

Headache

Earache

Difficult jaw opening:catching, locking, or shirting

painful joint noises:clicking, popping, or grating

How can Physical Therapy Help TMD?

increase jaw function

decrease pain

limit impact of TMD on daily life

A thorough exam and collaboration with your medical providers will guide my individual treatment plan. Gentle joint mobilization and massage will reduce tension in painful restricted muscles. Specific guided therapeutic exercise will facilitate normal movement patterns in the jaw and neck. I will teach you self management strategies to create lasting improvements.