TMJ & Jaw Disorder Treatments

Do you find yourself waking up with a sore face, hear clicking when you chew, or feel like your jaw is constantly tight? You're not alone. Millions of people in the U.S. experience jaw discomfort.

Unfortunately, many conventional treatments focus on managing symptoms rather than addressing the underlying problem. These may include pain medications, Botox injections, and muscle relaxants. When these treatments don't work, patients are sometimes left feeling that there is nothing more that can be done.

The good news is that Your Neighbor Physical Therapy offers a different approach. We provide specialized, hands-on treatment aimed at restoring temporomandibular joint (TMJ) biomechanics and improving jaw function. When combined with patient education and lifestyle modifications, this approach can help provide lasting relief.

Physical therapist using manual therapy on a patient's jaw
Hands-on TMJ treatment for jaw pain at Your Neighbor Physical Therapy

Our treatments include:

  • Advanced manual therapy techniques to improve TMJ biomechanics
  • Dry needling to address stubborn muscle tightness and dysfunction
  • Intraoral soft tissue treatment targeting the muscles inside the mouth
  • Exercises to improve jaw mobility, coordination, and strength
  • Patient education and activity modifications to reduce unnecessary stress on your jaw

Frequently Asked Questions

Many patients begin noticing improvements within 4–6 weeks. However, the number of sessions needed depends on the severity of your condition, contributing factors, and individual response to treatment.

Dentists may offer several treatment options, including night guards, Botox or trigger point injections, and orthodontic treatment. These can be valuable options depending on the patient's condition.

Physical therapy takes a different approach by addressing the musculoskeletal components of TMJ disorders, including joint mechanics and the surrounding muscles and soft tissues. We also provide education on behavioral and lifestyle modifications to help achieve lasting results.

Now we're talking! TMJ disorders rarely involve just the jaw. Many patients also have contributing neck and spinal dysfunction. Comprehensive TMJ treatment almost always includes addressing the neck and posture as well.

No. In Ohio, you can do physical therapy without a physician's referral. Contact us if you have questions about your specific situation.

Absolutely! Many patients with TMJ disorders also experience bruxism (teeth grinding). A night guard helps protect your teeth from the damaging effects of grinding. However, it does not necessarily address the underlying muscle tension, pain, or joint dysfunction.

Physical therapy can complement your dental treatment by addressing these underlying musculoskeletal issues.

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