TMJ & Jaw Pain Treatment

Specialized physiotherapy for TMJ disorders and jaw pain in South Surrey. Relief from clicking, locking, and temporomandibular joint dysfunction.

Book Appointment Call +1 604 923 8323

Prevalence

5-12% of adults have TMJ disorders

Common Age

Most common ages 20-40

Recovery Time

4-8 weeks with treatment

Coverage

Covered by extended health

Symptoms & Causes

Common Symptoms

Pain or tenderness in the jaw joint
Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening mouth
Jaw locking in open or closed position
Difficulty or pain when chewing
Facial pain or aching around the ear
Headaches, especially in the temples
Neck pain and stiffness
Changes in how teeth fit together

Common Causes

Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
Jaw muscle tension from stress
Disc displacement within the TMJ
Arthritis in the temporomandibular joint
Trauma or injury to the jaw
Poor posture affecting jaw alignment
Malocclusion (bite problems)
Excessive gum chewing or nail biting

How We Treat TMJ & Jaw Pain

At At Ease Physio in South Surrey, we provide specialized treatment for TMJ disorders using evidence-based techniques. Our approach addresses both the jaw joint and the surrounding muscles, as well as related areas like the neck and posture. We use gentle manual therapy to restore normal jaw movement, specific exercises to strengthen and coordinate jaw muscles, and strategies to reduce harmful habits.

What to Expect

Your initial assessment includes a comprehensive evaluation of your jaw mechanics, muscle tension, neck posture, and contributing factors. Treatment involves gentle manual therapy to the jaw and surrounding muscles, dry needling for muscle trigger points, craniosacral therapy for gentle fascial release, specific exercises to improve jaw coordination, and education on habit modification. Most patients see significant improvement within 4-6 weeks of consistent treatment.

Learn more: Explore our articles on polyvagal theory and jaw tension, the nervous system’s role in chronic tension, and dural layers affecting jaw function.

Our Treatment Services

Manual Therapy

Skilled hands-on techniques to restore mobility, reduce pain, and promote healing

Learn More

Dry Needling

Targeted trigger point therapy to release muscle tension and reduce pain

Learn More

Craniosacral Therapy

Gentle therapy targeting the skull, spine, and sacrum for headaches and chronic pain

Learn More

Prevention & Self-Care

Prevention Tips

Manage stress through relaxation techniques
Avoid excessive gum chewing
Maintain good posture, especially head position
Don't clench your jaw during the day
Sleep on your back or side, not stomach
Avoid opening mouth extremely wide
Take breaks from prolonged talking or singing
Address teeth grinding with a night guard if needed

When to See a Physiotherapist

Jaw pain lasting more than a few days
Clicking or popping that becomes painful
Difficulty opening mouth fully
Pain when eating or chewing
Frequent headaches with jaw symptoms
Neck pain accompanying jaw problems
Ear pain without infection

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, physiotherapy is highly effective for TMJ disorders. Research supports manual therapy and exercise as first-line treatments for TMJ dysfunction. We address the jaw joint itself, surrounding muscles, and contributing factors like posture and stress. Most patients experience significant improvement with conservative physiotherapy treatment.

Most patients see noticeable improvement within 4-6 weeks of treatment. Complete resolution typically occurs within 8-12 weeks. Chronic TMJ disorders or those involving significant structural changes may take longer. Consistency with home exercises and habit modifications significantly impacts recovery speed.

Both can be helpful, and we often work alongside dentists for comprehensive care. Physiotherapy addresses muscle tension, joint mobility, and postural factors. Dentists handle bite alignment, night guards, and dental-related causes. If your jaw pain involves clicking, locking, or muscle tension, physiotherapy is an excellent starting point.

Absolutely. Stress is one of the most common contributing factors to TMJ disorders. Stress causes unconscious jaw clenching, teeth grinding, and increased muscle tension. Our treatment includes strategies to recognize and reduce stress-related jaw tension, along with techniques to relax the jaw muscles.

A night guard can be helpful if you grind your teeth during sleep, but it addresses the symptom rather than the cause. Physiotherapy treats the underlying muscle tension and joint dysfunction. Many patients find they no longer need a night guard after successful physiotherapy treatment, though some benefit from using both approaches together.

Physiotherapy and the Polyvagal Theory: Supporting Your Nervous System

Discover how the Polyvagal Theory guides our approach to manual therapy, helping regulate your nervous system for better digestion, mood, and overall health.

A Nervous System Approach to Better Movement

Learn how recalibrating the brain sensory input through holistic physiotherapy promotes lasting relief from chronic tension and restricted movement.

Dural Layers Explained: A Hidden Cause of Headaches, Vertigo & Neck Pain

What are the dural layers? How the dura mater affects headaches, vertigo, whiplash recovery, and chronic pain — and how gentle manual therapy can help.