TMJ Physio

Jaw Physiotherapy is a specialised area of physiotherapy for those with TMD or TMJ dysfunction and pain.

The jaw itself is a free hanging structure, as such it is impacted upon by all the structures around it! This includes the tongue, airway and teeth as well as posture, head and neck strength and control, the shoulder blades and thoracic spine. It is complicated by the fact that it is a bi-arthrodial joint- meaning that 2 joints need to move synchronously to open and close the mouth. This means that there is a layer of complexity as coordination is required for a functional and pain-free movement pattern. Assessing this movement is a finely-honed skill by our physiotherapists! We will assess your jaw in a variety of positions to accurately diagnose not only the problem structures, but also the biomechanics of the movement to work out a forward-looking game plan. Treatment needs to look not only at the pain and symptoms, but on the impact of the dysfunctions in conveying emotions, smiling, chewing, speaking, singing, breathing and sleeping. As such, TMJ issues can have a high rate of recurrence and so accurate diagnosis and specific treatment is important in the long-term management of pain and symptoms. 

Due to the highly complex nature of the jaw, we do not consider this within “General Physiotherapy” and treat it as a speciality at City Physio. Both Matt and Nicola have additional training in the treatment of the jaw and are the only ones in our clinic who will treat jaw pain. Nicola also has her Masters in Pain Management from the University of Sydney, with a speciality in Orofacial Pain, making her somewhat of a go-to in the physiotherapy treatment of orofacial pain, jaw clicking, locked jaws and tooth clenching/ grinding. Nicola works frequently with referring dentists and makes it a part of her treatment to send a letter back to your dentist so everyone is on the same page!

Jaw pain and dysfunction can be quite debilitating with symptoms ranging mild restriction and ache, all the way to problems opening the mouth to eat or chew certain foods. Symptoms can also include pain, clicking, popping, jaw stiffness, restrictions with opening, pain with chewing, yawning, headaches, ringing in the ears, jaw weakness and problems with singing, talking or nocturnal teeth grinding/ clenching. Some patients have quite severe jaw opening restriction, and some present with just very mild ache and complaints of tooth clenching and grinding. No matter the complexity of the presentation, all jaws are comprehensively assessed and treated and we pride ourselves on our evidence based, accurate treatment and diagnosis.