If you've ever experienced discomfort while speaking, chewing, or yawning, you might be familiar with TMJ dysfunction. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) controls jaw movement, so dysfunction of this joint is a common yet distressing condition. Everyday activities can become a challenge due to TMJ dysfunction, so getting treatment as soon as possible is imperative in order to get back to normal.
JAG PT’s TMJ physical therapy specialization has helped countless people throughout New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania relieve their TMJ pain and restore regular jaw function quickly and in a minimally-invasive way. Book an appointment at your nearest location today to get started on the path to TMJ healing, or read on to learn more about the causes and treatments for TMJ dysfunction.
What Is TMJ Dysfunction and Why Does It Cause Jaw Pain?
Anytime we move our mouths, we are using the TMJ, a unique joint connecting the jawbone to the skull. Several factors can strain or injure this joint:
- Heightened Stress: Emotional or physical stress can lead to muscle tension in the jaw, which can induce TMJ dysfunction symptoms. It's common for people to clench their jaw during stressful moments, leading to increased pressure on the temporomandibular joint.
- Frequent Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Often an unconscious act, usually during sleep, teeth grinding can wear down the cushioning discs in the joint, leading to pain and discomfort.
- Dental Misalignment: When teeth don't fit together correctly, either due to genetics, trauma, or dental procedures, it can lead to an uneven distribution of force on the jaw, potentially causing or aggravating TMJ dysfunction.
How Can Physical Therapy Alleviate Jaw Pain and Improve TMJ Function?
Physical therapy offers a host of techniques tailored to counteract TMJ dysfunction. From specialized exercises to hands-on manual therapies, these methods primarily aim to alleviate pain and tension.
Physical therapists also use relaxation techniques to reduce stress, one of the leading causes of TMJ dysfunction. Ultimately, this helps to restore proper jaw mechanics, enhance flexibility, and alleviate associated discomfort.
What Does a Customized Treatment Plan for TMJ Dysfunction Involve?
Every individual's TMJ dysfunction symptoms and causes can differ, which is why a customized approach to treatment is key for effective and long-lasting relief.
JAG PT’s experienced therapists understand this need and design tailored treatment plans accordingly. Our individualized plans take into account each patient's unique symptoms, focusing on exercises, manual therapy, lifestyle modifications, and educational resources as needed.
Here's what you can expect:
- Focused Exercises: Designed to enhance flexibility and strength, specific jaw exercises target the muscles around the temporomandibular joint, promoting better movement and reduced discomfort.
- Manual Therapy: Hands-on treatments help in alleviating tension, improving joint mechanics, and facilitating pain relief.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Recommendations on daily habits, posture corrections, and dietary changes can significantly impact TMJ symptom reduction. Adapting one's lifestyle plays a crucial role in managing and preventing the recurrence of dysfunction.
- Educational Resources: Empowering patients with knowledge about their condition is vital. Providing resources, literature, and guidance ensures patients understand their TMJ dysfunction and the steps they can take to manage it effectively.
Our comprehensive approach to therapy for TMJ dysfunction ensures that patients receive the most effective and holistic care possible.
How Can JAG Physical Therapy Help Manage TMJ Dysfunction?
At our state-of-the-art facilities, we assure our patients not just top-tier treatment but also a friendly, professional environment. Whether it's hands-on therapy or ongoing support during recovery, JAG PT is committed to excellence in every aspect of patient care.
Regain Your Normal Jaw Function with JAG Physical Therapy
Let JAG Physical Therapy be your trusted partner in managing TMJ dysfunction. Our expert yet friendly and warm approach ensures that you get the best care in a comfortable setting. Schedule an appointment at your nearest location or contact us for more information.
Learn More About Physical Therapy from JAG PT:
- 5 TMJ Exercises for Jaw Pain Relief
- What is Dry Needling?
- How to Determine if Your Arm Pain is Elbow Bursitis
- The Role of Physical Therapy in Recovering from Back Injuries