Limited mouth opening
Limited opening can affect eating and hygiene; its cause should be assessed.
Characteristics
Care depends on the cause, examination and medical instructions. Movement should progress cautiously.
- Reduced mouth opening (<35mm)
- Soft tissue fibrosis
- Eating difficulties
- Rapid muscle fatigue
Physiotherapy treatment
- Progressive daily stretches
- Muscle relaxation
- Use of specific tools
- Home exercise program
Progress with treatment
Progress varies according to the condition and individual factors. Conservative options may be discussed after assessment, without a promised result or timeline.
Questions About TMJ Disorders
Characteristics
Limited opening can affect eating and hygiene; its cause should be assessed.
Physiotherapy treatment
Progressive daily stretches Muscle relaxation Use of specific tools Home exercise program
How many sessions are needed?
The number and spacing of visits depend on assessment, response and goals. No duration or result can be guaranteed.
Scientific sources
- Effectiveness of manual therapy for TMD (PubMed)
- TMJ and cervical spine connection (PMC)
- Therapeutic exercises for TMD (PubMed)
- Conservative approach to TMJ disorders (PubMed)
- Intra-oral techniques - systematic review
- Bruxism and physiotherapy (PubMed)
- Physiopedia practical guide - TMD
- HAS recommendations on TMD