Temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders, commonly called "TMJ," are a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. Common symptoms of TMJ include pain at the side of the face or jaw and problems opening and closing the mouth. Eating is often painful and problematic for patients with TMJ problems.

For most people the TMJ problem is a temporary annoyance and resolves without treatment. For some, however, the pain is ongoing and treatment is needed. The underlying causes for TMJ pain are often difficult to pinpoint. Contributing factors include bruxism (grinding teeth), stress and problems with alignment of the teeth.

At Dynamic Physical Therapy our approach is straightforward. First we sit down for an in-depth interview with the patient, than we perform a very detailed examination of the jaw joint and the neck. The neck and the jaw joints work together and both should be examined carefully in patients with jaw pain. The information from the interview and exam is used to develop a custom-designed treatment plan.

Even though our treatment plans are unique to each patient’s condition, some common components can de identified. These include education; it is essential that patients understand what is contributing to jaw pain and what they can do to change that. Manual therapy is used to eliminate any restriction of movement or muscle dysfunction. Many patients with jaw pain have tight joints in either the jaw or the neck. Many also have muscles that are not performing normally which could be contributing to the jaw pain and dysfunction. Manual therapy is the treatment of choice to resolve these issues. Modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation and iontophoresis can be used to reduce pain and support the treatment approach. Exercise is crucial and we will select the right exercises for each patient from a series of specialized jaw and neck exercises.

TMJ or jaw pain can be a debilitating condition. At Dynamic Physical Therapy we welcome the opportunity to help you with this condition. Our physical therapists are expertly trained to help you and we work closely with your dentist and/or physician so you receive a comprehensive approach to your TMJ problem.