TMJ Physio for Headaches, Jaw and Neck pain

Jaw and facial pain arising from the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) and surrounding tissues can be very debilitating as the face conveys a large amount of emotions and pain in this area can cause difficulties when talking, eating and making facial expressions.  Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) are a group of symptoms arising from the TMJ (jaw), masticatory muscles and teeth. Symptoms originating from the neck and surrounding muscles and soft tissues can also refer to the face and head,  Similarly, jaw and facial pain is very closely linked with the neck due to joint and  muscle connections as well as nerve pathways between the neck and lower brain.

Jaw pain can result from:

  • Trauma, eg: whiplash, direct blow to the jaw
  • Clenching and grinding of teeth
  • Poor head and neck posture
  • Teeth malalignment and orthodontics
  • Stress
  • Prolonged dental work

Symptoms may include:

  • Pain or discomfort over the TMJ, ear or side of face
  • Clicking or locking of the jaw
  • Jaw cracking or popping noises
  • Restricted jaw opening
  • Toothache
  • Headache
  • Neck and/or upper back pain
  • Pain in the mouth, tongue or hard palate
  • Tinnitus or altered hearing
  • Blocked or painful sinuses

Physio for jaw and facial pain, neck pain and headaches

jaw pain TMJ

Physiotherapy aims at reducing pain and restoring joint movement and muscle imbalances in the temporomandibular joints, facial muscles, and neck and upper back muscles and joints. Treatment includes postural correction, mobilisation and stretching techniques to the TMJ and neck joints, myofascial treatment to masticatory, facial and neck muscles, joint and muscle exercises, and advice on reducing jaw habits and stress management.

At your first appointment, I will take a detailed history of your symptoms including any neck, back and headache symptoms and assess your spine and masticatory (jaw joint and muscles) system before making a diagnosis and treatment plan.  I will always discuss different treatment and management options with your before starting treatment.

Man with jaw pain