TMJ Physiotherapy
How manual therapy relieves your jaw pain and restores joint function.
Misconceptions about TMJ disorders
Jaw clicking is normal and harmless
It may indicate a disc problem that deserves evaluation, especially if accompanied by pain
An isolated, painless sound does not always indicate disease. Clicking associated with pain, locking, limited opening or altered chewing should prompt an assessment of the temporomandibular joint and chewing muscles.
Only surgery can treat serious TMJ problems
Conservative options may be considered after assessment, without a promised result
Management depends on the diagnosis, progression and functional impact. Education, temporary activity changes, individual exercises and selected manual techniques may be discussed before or alongside specialist advice. Surgery is reserved for specific indications.
Bruxism cannot be treated
Physiotherapy combined with daytime rehabilitation and stress management significantly reduces bruxism
Bruxism has several possible contributing factors, and management differs between awake and sleep bruxism. Physiotherapy may help reduce pain, improve mobility and identify daytime clenching habits, but it is not a universal stand-alone treatment for sleep bruxism.