TMJ Dysfunction (Jaw Pain)

Do you have trouble eating or experience pain/discomfort when yawning?
Do you deal with persistent pain or discomfort in your jaw?
Does it feel uneven or hear a click when you open or close your mouth?
If this sounds like you, then you may have TMJ dysfunction, or “temporomandibular joint disorder.”

What is TMJ pain?

The temporomandibular joint is the link between your jaw and your skull. TMJ dysfunction is a condition that causes discomfort and stiffness in this joint and the surrounding muscles. TMJ dysfunction can arise if the joint is injured, damaged or simply overused.

What causes TMJ pain/disorder?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a complex structure comprised of bones, muscles and tendons that can cause pain on one or both sides of your jaw. This can make opening your mouth, talking, yawning, and chewing all very difficult.

There are several reasons why TMJ dysfunction may develop, but misalignment of the teeth, gum chewing, arthritis, teeth grinding, jaw injury and stress are the most common causes.

The best way to diagnose TMJ dysfunction is through a thorough assessment in which your medical history will be reviewed, along with some movement tests and screening of your jaw movements and neck by one of our physiotherapists.

Symptoms of TMJ disorder include:

Headaches

Sore jaw muscles

Zig zag jaw

Jaw popping

Pain in the temples

Earaches

Jaw pain

Pain when eating or chewing or singing

It is important to rule out other conditions such as trigeminal neuralgia, salivary gland disease, or even swollen lymph nodes as these conditions have related symptoms. Once your diagnosis has been determined, you will be treated based on the nature of your symptoms.

How do we treat TMJ pain/dysfunction?

We use our 4-step system to assess and treat your condition as outlined below. This ensures you have the best possible chance of getting better and the problem not returning in future.

1) Assess

First we listen to you and take a detailed history of your jaw pain and how it affects you. Then we do a thorough examination of your jaw mobility, neck, shoulders and thoracic spine area using movement tests and screens.

We then explain your likely diagnosis and proposed treatment plan of exactly what we need to do, to get you better.

2) Mobilise

We then begin treatment. This usually involves a combination of hands-on techniques as outlined below to help improve joint stiffness, decrease pain and improve muscle and nerve tension.

Soft tissue massage and mobilisation

Joint mobilisation

Acupuncture and Dry Needling

Muscle Energy Techniques

Taping

Advice around lifestyle, posture and ergonomics.

We begin to build your exercise rehab programme ensuring it fits around your life and is not overwhelming.

3) Strengthen

Once pain has begun to settle and we are moving in the right direction, the emphasis shifts to helping you build the necessary strength and resilience of muscles and joints in order to get those long-lasting results. We work with you 1:1 in our dedicated rehab space and/or start you in our group PhysioFit Pilates classes.

4) Optimise

Now that you are well on your way to being pain free, we show you how to build on these results. Many of our clients choose to start our Physio Led Pilates classes which are an excellent way to stay consistent with your exercises and to keep you on track going forwards.

Note: Most people don’t need scans but if during the assessment or subsequent treatment sessions we decide your condition does need further investigation like an X-ray or MRI, we have the facilities to refer you privately if you wish. Usually, we can get this organised and have a result within 3-5 days.

How do I get started?

If you are ready to book in then you can either phone the main desk on 0191 814 9717, or use our easy online booking system by clicking here and selecting the ‘Physiotherapy Assessment/First Appointment’ option at a day and time that suits you. You will usually be offered an appointment within 48 hours.

Like to speak to someone first?

No problem, please call the main desk and if needed we can have a physio call you back to discuss your specific situation.

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

    
 
 
        
   Paul Scrafton 
 2023-09-21
 
 
  Physio linked to additional stretches/exercises and Pilates at JL Physiofit have improved my core strength and flexibility.
  
 
       
   Rebecca Lowes 
 2023-09-18
 
 
  Michael helped me with leg pain leading up to my first half marathon. I ended up running the whole distance with no pain and was able to enjoy the experience by taking his advice and getting treatment the week before the big run. Would recommend to anyone.
  
 
       
   Neil Taylor 
 2023-09-15
 
 
  Hi , i have had individual physiotherapy by Bev for my back and feet (plantar fascia )and have subsequently been able to join a beginners Pilate class run by Bev . The  class is demanding , enjoyable and appropriate to my physical capability.
  
 
       
   Alison Bailey 
 2023-09-15
 
 
  I thoroughly enjoyed my Pilates class this morning.  I found my teacher to be very thorough, aware of each pupils ability and very encouraging.  Highly recommended.  Thank you .
  
 
       
   Sharon Oldroyd 
 2023-09-15
 
 
  Started treatment in September 2022 after hospital appointments with consultant and scans on my left knee.

I booked to see Michael as I was having major pain/grinding noise and unable to do exercise or even walk up/down the stairs properly.

He assessed my mobility and strength and developed a tailored, gradual rehab program that has helped me to build strength and confidence in my knee as well as helping me slowly get back into exercising. It's made a vast difference working with Michael as I'm not an easy person to work with and always push myself too far. All my exercises were shared via email and accessible via an app.

Now I'm exercising 5 times a week, spinning, strength, cardio, HIIT, rowing and running (I can finally use my home gym).

Thank you for your patience and understanding my needs.

Would highly recommend Michael and JL PhysioFit.
  
 
       
   Diana Robertson 
 2023-08-26
 
 
  I am really enjoying beginners Pilates and feel like I have made good progress. The trainers are very good and it is a positive low-key atmosphere and everyone is friendly and welcoming.
  
 
       
   Julie Tough 
 2023-08-24
 
 
  Enjoying this physio type class, definitely feeling the benefit.
  
 
       
   Moira Luccock 
 2023-08-23
 
 
  Good class today with Michael. Well taught by Michael with options to suit our abilities. Stretching so feel I have progressed. Light hearted banter too - what more could you want!
Moira
  
 
       
   Lesley Hughes 
 2023-08-22
 
 
  Good team that listen to what clients have to say before doing each Pilates class, so if you have a niggle they work with it.   Exercises are testing but doable, even if at the time you are not sure about it, and if you can't then they come up with a variation for you to do.   Friendly classes and staff.
  
 
       
   Nick Winslow 
 2023-08-17
 
 
  I attend pilates regularly and cannot overstate how much I value the advice ,motivation,and fun this provides.There is a real rewarding sense of progression.JL himself is my usual instructor ,but  the entire team have an infectious enthusiasm that fosters self improvement.
  
 
  
  
 
 
   Google rating score: 5.0 of 5, based on 149 reviews