TMJ Physical Therapy

– Improve Jaw Motion and Reduce Pain

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) is a common condition that limits the function of the jaw and causes pain. Up to 33% of people will experience TMD symptoms at some point in their lives.1

Physical Therapy Specialists Provides Relief for TMD Pain

Our primary goals are to bring pain relief and restore function. Once we identify the source of your pain, we can put your optimal treatment plan in place thereby restoring healthy jaw function.

Established TMD Treatment Strategies
  • Manual Therapies
  • Exercise Plans
  • Self-Care Programs
  • Patient Education
Schedule a FREE Discovery Visit or Phone Consultation.

Treating Jaw Pain with Physical Therapy

What is Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

Patients with TMD often visit our clinic to address headache pain. After a detailed evaluation, we discover the true source of their pain is dysfunction in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

TMD is also known as TMJ because of the impact on the temporomandibular joint. Headaches are a symptom of TMD.

With our customized treatment plans, we identify the best methods to address your specific symptoms. Improve your quality of life and restore comfort with improved jaw mobility.

What Is Temporomandibular Joint Disorder?

The temporomandibular joint attaches your jaw to your skull. The joint functions to control jaw movements, like opening and closing your mouth, talking, yawning and chewing.

TMD occurs when the joint is damaged, the cartilage deteriorates or the disk becomes misaligned or can erode. If you are experiencing jaw pain or headaches, we’re here to help!

Pain is not normal! We want to address your jaw pain with effective physical therapy treatments.

Symptoms of TMJ

TMD Symptoms

  • Pain in the jaw joint
  • Jaw locking with opening or closing
  • Clicking or clunking in the jaw
  • Limited range of motion when opening mouth
  • Headaches

  • Swelling on the side of the face

  • Uncomfortable bite

TMJ Physical Therapy Treatments

Manual Therapy Solutions

  • Relaxation of the jaw muscles through hands-on techniques
  • Increased jaw movement and pain relief
  • Restored flexibility through stretching
  • Enhancement of proper muscle activation

Exercise Plan

  • TMJ specific exercises, like gentle stretches, tongue exercises and stabilization exercises for the jaw

  • Stability exercises for your neck and shoulders

  • Range of motion exercises

Treatment for TMD

  • Joint Mobilization
  • Soft Tissue Mobilization
  • Myofascial Release
  • Trigger Point Dry Needling
  • Ultrasound

  • Functional Home Exercise Program

  • Self-Care Techniques
TMJ advantages

Benefits of TMJ Physical Therapy

  • Improve function and comfort

  • Decrease inflammation
  • Rehabilitate jaw joint
  • Relieve pain and reduce dependence on medications
  • Loosen, lengthen and relax muscles
  • Avoid invasive surgery

TMJ Physical Therapy FAQs

TMD affects patients of all ages. Both children and adults can benefit from physical therapy for TMD. The key is receiving an accurate diagnosis to ensure you are effectively treating your pain. Work with experienced and trusted professionals to receive the highest quality of care.

To determine the source of your pain or loss of function, we begin with an examination. We review your symptoms, examine jaw function and evaluate your movements. Since we are specialists with advanced training in the area, we can do an assessment of each of your ligaments and discs to know the source of your pain.

Our expertly trained and experienced professionals create a treatment plan designed to address your unique condition. Our patient-centered approach puts you and your needs at the core of all treatment strategies.

Achieve the pain relief you deserve! We want each patient to live life to the fullest. Pain gets in the way of your quality of life. Physical therapy restores your health with proven treatment protocols, like manual therapies.

Plus, overuse of prescription pain medications can lead to addiction and other side effects. Physical therapy offers a solution to your pain. We partner with you to reach your goals and find lasting healing.

Restore Jaw Function and Relieve Pain

Discover your path to healing at Physical Therapy Specialists. Visit our clinic in Centennial or schedule a phone consultation. We are here for you!

Contact us today to schedule a FREE discovery visit.
pts-happy family at Physical Therapy Specialist

You have nothing to lose but pain or worry.

Come see for yourself what Physical Therapy Specialists can do for you!