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How do you feel?

TMJ refers to your temporomandibular joint, which allows your jaw to move up, down, and side to side. It also, colloquially, refers to the pain you feel when your TMJ is out of whack, otherwise known as a TMJ Disorder.

At SOPT, your physical therapist will conduct a thorough clinical examination to determine which contributing factors are causing you pain. He or she will then create a personalized treatment plan for you that reduces your pain and improves your jaw function.

Several symptoms of TMJ Disorder include:

  • Pain and tenderness on either or both sides of your jaw
  • Difficulty or discomfort chewing
  • A clicking or popping sound while you chew
  • Aching pain in and around your ear
  • Locking of your jaw
  • Headaches
  • Facial pain

What are the common causes?

While there is no definitive cause to TMJ Syndrome, there are several contributing factors, such as:

  • An injury to the jaw can misalign or damage the joint
  • Grinding your teeth while you sleep puts stress on the joint
  • Poor posture in the neck and upper back creates muscle strain affecting jaw function
  • Poorly positioned teeth can offset the jaw
  • Stress can tighten facial and neck muscles that put stress on the joint

“Because of this amazing place I won’t have to get neck or jaw surgery!”

– Sara

How Do I Know it’s Time for Specialized Orthopedic Physical Therapy?

  • You have been suffering from chronic pain for some time now. You may have even seen other physical therapists in the past but the pain never left or has returned.
  • You only want treatment with a licensed PT, not a string of PT Assistants.
  • You want hands-on treatment from the same PT every visit so he or she can treat you more personally and more effectively.
  • You want access to the best and most current techniques from a fully licensed PT.
  • Remember, you do NOT need a referral from your PCP to see a PT (unless your insurance dictates otherwise). And you have the right to see any PT you choose for treatment of your pain and injuries. Feel free to call our office and we can help you determine if a PCP referral is needed. (401) 384-6490

What’s Next?

Learn More About Our Process
How to Choose a Physical Therapist
Schedule a Consultation