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Edina:  952.922.0330   |   Mpls:  612.339.2041

OrthoRehab - Edina Physical Therapists

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How Physical Therapy Helps With TMJ Jaw Pain

What Causes TMJ Jaw Pain

The temporomandibular joint is one of the most complex joints in the body. It must glide, rotate, and slide every time you speak or chew. When the joint structure, surrounding muscles, or alignment becomes imbalanced, the TMJ becomes irritated.

Common causes include:

  • Clenching or grinding

  • Stress-related muscle tension

  • Forward head posture

  • Weak or overactive jaw muscles

  • Neck stiffness

  • Joint disc displacement

  • Muscle asymmetry

  • Poor chewing mechanics

  • Previous injury or dental procedures

Because TMJ issues can arise from so many sources, an accurate evaluation is essential. Physical therapists look not only at the jaw but also at the neck, shoulders, posture, and movement patterns to understand the whole picture.

How Physical Therapy at OrthoRehab Reduces TMJ Pain

Physical therapy is one of the most effective treatments for TMJ dysfunction because it addresses both the joint and the surrounding systems that influence jaw movement. Our clinicians use hands-on treatment, targeted exercises, mobility work, and education to improve alignment and reduce stress on the joint.

1. Comprehensive Evaluation of Jaw and Neck Mechanics

Your initial evaluation may include:

  • Assessment of jaw opening and closing patterns

  • Measurement of jaw range of motion

  • Screening for clicking or popping

  • Muscle tension assessment in the jaw, neck, and shoulders

  • Posture evaluation

  • TMJ joint mobility testing

  • Breathing pattern assessment

This thorough approach allows us to identify the mechanical problems contributing to your pain.

2. Manual Therapy to Reduce Jaw and Neck Tension

TMJ dysfunction almost always involves muscle tension. Manual therapy helps release tight structures and improve joint motion. Your therapist may use:

  • Soft tissue mobilization to jaw muscles, such as the masseter and temporalis

  • Intraoral manual therapy when appropriate

  • Joint mobilization techniques for the TMJ

  • Myofascial release through the neck and upper back

  • Trigger point release

Reducing muscle tension creates immediate relief and prepares the jaw for healthier movement patterns.

3. Mobility Training for the Jaw, Neck, and Upper Back

TMJ issues are often closely linked to limitations in the cervical spine or upper back. Improving mobility in these areas reduces strain on the jaw.

Mobility work may include:

  • Cervical spine mobility drills

  • Thoracic extension and rotation exercises

  • Controlled opening and closing of the jaw

  • Lateral jaw mobility training

  • Postural mobility exercises

Restoring movement in the surrounding regions allows the jaw to function more efficiently.

4. Strengthening the Muscles That Support Proper Jaw Motion

Weak or imbalanced jaw muscles can alter the path of jaw movement, increasing stress on the TMJ. Strengthening and retraining these muscles helps restore correct mechanics.

Exercises may include:

  • Controlled jaw opening and closing drills
    – Tongue positioning and stabilization training

  • Coordination exercises for balanced muscle activation

  • Deep neck flexor activation to support posture

  • Scapular strengthening to improve overall alignment

These exercises build a stable foundation for long-term jaw health.

5. Posture Correction to Reduce Jaw Stress

Posture plays a major role in TMJ pain. Forward head posture increases strain on the jaw by altering the position of the joint and placing tension on the surrounding muscles.

Your therapist may help you adjust:

  • Sitting workstation setup

  • Standing alignment

  • Phone and computer habits

  • Breathing and rib cage mechanics

Correcting posture reduces joint irritation and prevents recurring symptoms.

6. Neuromuscular Reeducation for Better Jaw Control

TMJ problems often stem from poor coordination rather than weakness alone. Neuromuscular retraining teaches the jaw to move in smooth, efficient patterns.

Your therapist may focus on:

  • Improving jaw tracking

  • Reducing lateral deviation during opening

  • Coordinating opening and closing without clicking

  • Releasing compensatory muscle patterns

This training helps restore normal function and reduces pain during chewing and talking.

7. Strategies for Managing Clenching and Stress

Stress is one of the most common contributors to TMJ dysfunction. Many people clench or grind their teeth without realizing it, especially during concentrated work or sleep.

Physical therapy helps you understand and manage these patterns through:

  • Awareness training

  • Relaxation strategies

  • Breathing techniques

  • Stress reduction education

These tools help decrease involuntary tension that aggravates the joint.

The Three-Phase TMJ Rehabilitation Model

Most TMJ recovery programs follow a structured, progressive approach.

Phase One: Reduce Pain and Muscle Tension

This phase focuses on calming irritated tissues with manual therapy, mobility work, and pain-relieving strategies.

Phase Two: Restore Mobility and Improve Function

During this stage, we improve joint mobility, postural alignment, and jaw mechanics through strengthening and targeted exercises.

Phase Three: Build Long-Term Strength and Prevent Recurrence

The final phase emphasizes stability, coordination, and developing long-term habits that protect the TMJ from ongoing irritation.

Why Physical Therapy Works Better Than Passive Rest Alone

Resting the jaw may reduce discomfort temporarily, but it does not correct the underlying mechanics. Physical therapy addresses the root causes of TMJ dysfunction by restoring normal motion, reducing muscle tension, and retraining how the jaw and neck work together.

This leads to:

  • Fewer flare-ups

  • Improved comfort with chewing and talking

  • Less neck and shoulder tension

  • Better jaw alignment

  • Long-lasting relief

What Successful TMJ Rehabilitation Looks Like

Patients who follow a structured program often experience:

  • Reduced jaw pain

  • Decreased clicking or popping

  • Less muscle tension in the face and neck

  • Improved ability to open and close the jaw

  • Fewer headaches

  • Better posture and alignment

  • More comfortable eating and speaking

  • Long-term reduction in flare-ups

These improvements support confidence in daily activities and long-term jaw health.

Final Thoughts

TMJ jaw pain can be frustrating because it interferes with essential everyday activities. The discomfort often spreads beyond the jaw into the neck, shoulders, and head. Physical therapy provides a proven and effective approach for reducing pain, restoring healthy motion, and improving overall function. At OrthoRehab Specialists, we help patients through each step of recovery with a personalized plan designed to target their unique symptoms and the underlying mechanical issues contributing to them.

Currently managing TMJ jaw pain or dealing with recurring discomfort while chewing or talking? Do not leave your recovery to chance. Contact us at our Edina clinic at 952.922.0330 or our Minneapolis clinic at 612.339.2041 to begin your guided recovery through all three phases. Visit our Resources page for additional information on our comprehensive approach to TMJ rehabilitation.

Dr. Matt Siewert, PT
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