TMJ & Jaw Pain Treatment

What Is TMJ Dysfunction?

TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction affects the joint that connects your jaw to your skull. It can cause pain, clicking, locking, headaches, and difficulty eating — significantly impacting your daily life.

Symptoms We Treat

• Jaw pain or tenderness
• Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening the mouth
• Jaw locking in the open or closed position
• Headaches and ear pain
• Difficulty chewing or pain while eating
• Facial pain and tension
• Neck pain and stiffness related to jaw dysfunction

How Physical Therapy Helps

Physical therapy is a first-line treatment for TMJ dysfunction. Your therapist at Tula will use specialized techniques including:

• Intraoral and extraoral manual therapy — hands-on techniques targeting the jaw muscles and joint
• Cervical spine treatment — addressing the neck's contribution to jaw pain
• Jaw exercises — restoring proper movement patterns and strength
• Postural correction — reducing forward head posture that stresses the TMJ
• Stress management techniques — addressing clenching and tension habits

Working with Your Dentist or Orthodontist

TMJ treatment is often most effective as part of a team approach. We frequently coordinate with dentists, orthodontists, and oral surgeons to ensure your care is comprehensive.