The Role of Physical Therapy in the Treatment of TMJ

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ) can cause significant discomfort and impact daily activities such as eating, speaking, and even sleeping. While dental interventions are crucial, physical therapy has also emerged as a highly effective treatment for alleviating TMJ symptoms. In this blog, the knowledgeable team at Softouch Dental Care led by Dr. Michael Chung explore how physical therapy complements dental care in managing TMJ disorders.

Understanding TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorders affect the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull, leading to pain, stiffness, and movement limitations. Causes can range from jaw injuries and arthritis to stress-related habits like teeth grinding. Symptoms often include jaw pain, clicking or popping noises, and headaches.

The Role of Physical Therapy

Physical therapy offers a non-invasive approach to TMJ treatment, focusing on reducing pain, increasing joint mobility, and improving overall function. Here’s how physical therapists help TMJ patients:

1. Pain Management: Techniques such as ultrasound therapy, moist heat, and ice can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Physical therapists also employ manual therapies to gently stretch and mobilize the jaw to decrease discomfort.
2. Improving Jaw Movement: Therapists use exercises to strengthen the muscles around the jaw and enhance its range of motion. These exercises help stabilize the jaw joint and prevent future issues.
3. Education on Posture and Ergonomics: Poor posture can exacerbate TMJ symptoms. Physical therapists teach patients how to maintain proper posture, particularly how neck and shoulder alignment can influence jaw tension.
4. Stress Reduction Techniques: Since stress can contribute to teeth grinding and jaw clenching, therapists often teach relaxation techniques to help manage stress and reduce the strain on the jaw.

Integrating Physical Therapy with Dental Care

For comprehensive TMJ treatment, physical therapy should be integrated with professional dental care. Dentists may provide splints or mouthguards to prevent teeth grinding, which complement the physical therapy regimen. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that both the symptoms and root causes of TMJ disorders are addressed.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re struggling with TMJ symptoms in Oakton, Vienna, or Fairfax, VA, consider incorporating physical therapy into your treatment plan. At Softouch Dental Care, Dr. Chung understands the complexities of TMJ disorders and work closely with physical therapists to offer holistic care tailored to your needs. Don’t let TMJ pain hold you back—help is available. Contact us at 703-319-6990.