TMJ

TMJ

TMJ Physiotherapy & Massage

What is TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge that connects our lower jaw to the skull, just in front of each ear. With one on each side, they allow us to move the jaw and speak, chew, and yawn. While many people use the term "TMJ" to describe jaw pain, TMJ actually refers to the joint itself. Problems affecting this joint or the muscles that control it are known as temporomandibular disorders (TMD).

Common Symptoms of TMD

While symptoms vary, they commonly include:

  • Pain or tenderness in the jaw
  • Pain around the ears, face, or temples
  • Difficulty or discomfort when chewing
  • Ringing in the ears or dizziness
  • Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when opening or closing the mouth
  • Jaw stiffness or limited movement
  • A jaw that locks open or closed
  • Headaches or neck pain

These symptoms may last only a short time and resolve on their own. However, if they become chronic or long lasting, it may be a sign of TMDs.

What Causes TMD?

There isn't always an exact cause for temporomandibular disorders. That being said, some of the factors contributing to jaw pain and dysfunction include:

  • Clenching or grinding your teeth
  • Injury to the jaw or temporomandibular joint
  • Arthritis affecting the jaw joint
  • Muscle tension or overuse of the jaw muscles

Because every case is different, a thorough assessment can help determine what may be contributing to your symptoms.

How We Treat TMJ Dysfunction

At Avita Health in North Vancouver, we take a personalized approach to treating TMJ dysfunction. Regardless of which modality you choose, treatment begins with a thorough assessment to identify the muscles, joints, and movement patterns that may be contributing to your symptoms.

Physiotherapy for TMJ

Once the assessment is complete, your physiotherapist will recommend a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This may include:

  • Hands-on manual therapy and soft tissue release using IMS to reduce tension
  • Joint mobilization techniques
  • Exercises to improve jaw control and strength, as well as head and neck posture
  • Advice on modifying daily activities that may aggravate symptoms

Massage Therapy for TMJ

Massage therapy can help relieve tension in the muscles that influence jaw movement, including the muscles of the jaw, face, neck, and upper shoulders.

Treatment may include:

  • Myofascial release
  • Trigger point therapy
  • Treatment of the neck and upper back to reduce contributing muscle tension

Frequently Asked Questions

Is your question not on here? Please give us a call at 604-980-4491 and our team is happy to answer it.

Our TMJ Team

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