TMJ & Jaw Pain Treatment
Specialized physiotherapy for TMJ disorders and jaw pain in South Surrey. Relief from clicking, locking, and temporomandibular joint dysfunction.
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
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
Meet the Practitioners
Our team of experienced physiotherapists and kinesiologists are ready to help you on your path to recovery.
New to physiotherapy?
Start with an assessment. You do not need to choose a treatment technique.
Frequently asked questions
Can physiotherapy help TMJ disorders?
How long does TMJ treatment take?
Should I see a dentist or physiotherapist for jaw pain?
Can stress cause TMJ problems?
Will I need a night guard for TMJ?
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Read moreReady to Start Your Recovery?
Book your initial assessment with one of our experienced physiotherapists at South Surrey.