Are you in Geelong living with jaw pain ? This can be a daily challenge, TMJ-related pain, which stems from the temporomandibular joint, can disrupt eating, speaking, and even sleeping. If you’re in Geelong and experiencing TMJ pain, physiotherapy at Move may be the solution you’ve been searching for. This article explores the causes of TMJ dysfunction, its symptoms, and how Move Sports Physio & Pilates in Geelong can help you find lasting relief.
Understanding the TMJ: Anatomy and Function
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your lower jawbone (mandible) to the temporal bones of your skull. It’s a highly complex joint, allowing for movements like chewing, talking, and yawning. A small disc within the joint absorbs shocks and ensures smooth movement.
When this joint or the surrounding muscles and tissues become irritated, inflamed, or misaligned, it can lead to TMJ dysfunction, causing pain and restricted movement.
Causes of TMJ Pain:
TMJ-related pain can occur due to:
Muscle Overuse: Clenching or grinding teeth (bruxism) can overwork the jaw muscles.
Joint Misalignment: Issues with the joint's disc or alignment can lead to discomfort.
Stress and Tension: Emotional stress often results in unconscious jaw clenching.
Injury or Trauma: Physical damage to the jaw or surrounding tissues.
Movement Imbalances: Repetitive movements or static postures, such as chewing on one side or prolonged screen use.
Symptoms of TMJ-Related Pain;
Common signs of TMJ dysfunction include:
Jaw pain or tenderness
Clicking or popping sounds during movement
Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
Headaches, particularly in the temples
Ear pain or ringing (tinnitus)
Neck and shoulder tension
If these symptoms persist, seeking expert care is essential to prevent the condition from worsening.
How Physio in Geelong can help TMJ Pain?
If you’re searching for TMJ physio in Geelong, look no further than Move Sports Physio & Pilates. Our physiotherapists Isabel loves all things TMJ dysfunction and offers a tailored, non-invasive approach to relieve pain and restore function.
What to expect ?
At Move Sports Physio & Pilates in Newton, we begin with a detailed assessment to identify the root cause of your TMJ pain. This includes evaluating jaw movement, muscle tension, posture, and overall biomechanics.
Individualised Treatment Plans
Your treatment may include:
Soft Tissue Therapy
Releasing tight muscles in the jaw, neck, and shoulders to reduce pain and improve movement.
Joint Mobilisation
Gentle, hands-on techniques to realign the TMJ and enhance its mobility.
Exercise Prescription
Strengthening and stretching exercises to improve jaw function and reduce strain. This can be a range of things like clinical pilates, stretches and strength trainning.
Movement Variability Training
Encouraging varied movements to reduce repetitive stress on the jaw and surrounding structures.
Stress Management and Box Breathing
Techniques like box breathing (inhale for 4 counts, hold for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4) can reduce tension and clenching habits.
Education and Self-Care Strategies
Learn to identify and avoid triggers such as teeth grinding or jaw overuse.
Examples of myofascial release and trigger point therapy that Isabel may work on....
Did you know there is a a strong link between neck pain, headaches and jaw pain. Read more about it here - TMJ. Want to learn more about Isabel's experience - check out her bio here !