Understanding TMJ and TMD: How Physical Therapy Can Help

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull and is one of the most complex joints in your body. This joint allows you to talk, chew, yawn, laugh, and more. However, when problems arise with the TMJ, it can lead to temporomandibular disorders (TMD), which can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw, face, and neck.

A TMJ/ TMD specialist can be found at the following clinics: Appleton East / Appleton West / Appleton North / Champion Center / Fond du Lac / Green Bay East / Marinette / Neenah / New London / Ripon / Shawano / Stevens Point North / Stevens Point South / Waupaca

Symptoms of TMD

Do you have:

  • Jaw pain or tenderness

  • Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing your mouth

  • Difficulty chewing or a sensation of the jaw locking

  • Headaches or earaches

  • Neck pain and stiffness

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How we can Help:

Physical therapy offers a non-invasive, effective approach to managing TMD. A physical therapist can work with you to reduce pain, improve mobility, and restore function to the TMJ. Here are some key benefits:

  • Pain Relief: Targeted treatments, such as manual therapy and modalities like ultrasound and dry needling, can alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in the TMJ and surrounding muscles.

  • Improved Mobility and Strength: Exercises designed to stretch and strengthen the jaw can help decrease pain and restore movement and function.

  • Postural Alignment: Forward head posture and rounded shoulders can place extra strain on the TMJ. Physical therapy addresses posture to reduce stress on the joint.

Take the Next Step Toward Relief

If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMD, don’t let them interfere with your quality of life. Physical therapy offers a safe and effective path to relief and decreases the need for surgical intervention.

Contact Advanced Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine today to schedule an evaluation and start your journey to better health and comfort.

Advanced Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine has TMJ / TMD specialists in Appleton, WI (Appleton East, Appleton North, Champion Center), Fond du Lac, WI, Green Bay, WI, Marinette, WI, Neenah, WI, New London, WI, Ripon, WI, Shawano, WI, Stevens Point (Stevens Point North, Stevens Point South), Waupaca, WI.


Want to learn more before scheduling?

Try our free Advanced On Demand self-help tool to explore your symptoms and options.

Ready to Move Pain-Free Again?

Request an Appointment or Find a Location Near You today!