Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD)
What is TMD?
Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) refers to a group of conditions affecting the jaw (temporomandibular joint or TMJ), the muscles that control jaw movement, and surrounding structures. The TMJ connects your lower jaw (mandible) to your skull and plays a vital role in speaking, chewing, yawning, and facial expression.
When this system is not functioning optimally, it can lead to pain, jaw clenching or grinding (bruxism), dental changes, headaches and a range of other uncomfortable symptoms. Often, its presentation is multifactorial, meaning several contributing factors are involved. Our assessment will involve assessment of posture, mobility and control through both the jaw but also the spine as these two areas are commonly interrelated.
Importantly, TMD is common and highly treatable with the right conservative care.
Common Symptoms of TMD / Jaw Pain
TMD doesn’t just cause jaw pain. Because of the close relationship between the jaw, neck, and head, symptoms can present in several ways:
Jaw pain or tenderness
Clicking, popping, or grinding noises in the jaw
Difficulty opening or closing the mouth fully or locking of the jaw
Pain when chewing or talking
Headaches (especially around the temples)
Ear pain, fullness, or ringing (without infection)
Facial pain or pressure
Neck and upper shoulder tension
Tooth sensitivity or unexplained dental pain
Symptoms may fluctuate and often worsen during periods of stress
How We Can Help
As TMJ physiotherapy specialists, we provide a comprehensive assessment and evidence-based approach treatment.
Your initial assessment will evaluate:
Jaw movement and joint mechanics
Muscle function and tenderness
Neck and upper spine mobility
Posture and breathing patterns
Contributing lifestyle factors (stress, sleep, clenching)
Understanding the root drivers of your symptoms allows us to create a targeted treatment plan.
Treatment may include:
Manual therapy to the jaw and surrounding muscles
Joint mobilisation techniques
Specific jaw and neck exercises
Postural retraining
Education around clenching, grinding, and habit modification
Relaxation and load-management strategies
Our goal is not only to reduce pain, but to restore confident, comfortable jaw function and prevent recurrence.
Most TMD cases respond very well to physiotherapy. Early, targeted intervention can significantly reduce symptoms and help you avoid unnecessary procedures.
If you are experiencing jaw pain, headaches, clicking, or facial tension, we are here to help you move, speak, and eat comfortably again.
