How Does A Physical Therapist Treat TMJ?

A physical therapist will help you create a regimen that involves studying and implementing strategies for regaining normal jaw function.

Relaxation, stretching, and releasing rigid muscles and scar tissue are the main goals of physical therapy for temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). Physical therapy is an important aspect of TM joint surgery rehabilitation because it helps to reduce scar tissue formation and muscle tightness.

Physical therapy techniques may include:

• Muscle strengthening, endurance, and range of motion exercises for the jaw.
• Improved blood circulation in the jaw with heat therapy.
• Ice therapy is used to minimize swelling and discomfort.
• Overall muscle tension can be relieved with massage.
• Training to strengthen posture and balance the jaw.
• The application of a mild electrical current to the skin over the jaw joint is known as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). The body’s pain signals are believed to be disrupted by this electrical current. TENS relieves pain by relaxing muscles and improving blood supply. TENS has varying degrees of success, but it seems to work for certain people.
• Movement of the temporomandibular (TM) joint to increase range of motion and release scar tissue that limits muscle movement.
• Ultrasound therapy reduces discomfort, swelling, and improves circulation by sending high-frequency sound waves to the TM joint.

What Kind of Physical Therapist Do I Need?

Physical therapists are trained to treat a wide range of diseases and accidents through their knowledge and experience. You should think about it:

• A physical therapist who has worked with people who have musculoskeletal issues before. Some physical therapists specialize in craniofacial conditions, which are movement disorders involving the skull and facial structures.
• A board-certified clinical specialist in orthopedic physical therapy or a physical therapist who has completed a residency or internship in orthopedic physical therapy. This therapist has extensive expertise, experience, and skills that may be useful in treating your illness.

Find a PT, an online tool created by the American Physical Therapy Association to help you search for physical therapists with unique clinical experience in your geographic region, to find physical therapists with these and other qualifications.

When looking for a physical therapist, here are some general guidelines (or any other health care provider):

• Seek advice from family and friends, as well as other health-care professionals.
• When making an appointment with a physical therapy facility, inquire about the physical therapists’ experience with TMD patients.
• Prepare to explain the symptoms in as much detail as possible during your first appointment with the physical therapist, as well as what makes them worse.

What To Expect After Treatment

You should rest your jaw after a physical therapy session, try to monitor behaviors that trigger jaw pain, and stop chewing foods that stress the joint.

Why It Is Done

Physical therapy:

• Is often combined with other medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or muscle relaxants.
• If symptoms are not resolved by home treatment and are linked to muscle pain, surgery may be recommended.
• After surgery, it’s used to speed up recovery and reduce discomfort and swelling.

Are You Looking for Relief From TMJ Dysfunction? 

Pace Physical Therapy in San Jose, California specializes in non-surgical neck pain relief and recovery therapies for TMJ Dysfunction.  Physical therapy is probably one of the most common interventions for TMJ disorder if you choose to stop taking pain-relieving drugs and use a more holistic method. A thorough examination will be performed on your neck, shoulder girdle, and thoracic spine at your initial consultation with Pace Physical Therapy to decide whether those structures are triggering your symptoms. One of our dedicated physical therapists from San Jose, CA, will then develop a care plan based on the extent of your symptoms and your particular needs. Our physical therapists are patient-centric and committed to your health, working hard to help you manage and eliminate symptoms. If you are in San Jose, CA suffering from the symptoms of TMJ dysfunction, request an appointment at Pace Physical Therapy. Don’t suffer from jaw pain and stiffness any longer.