TMJ – Jaw/Ear Pain

Physical therapy intervention can be very effective in alleviating acute and chronic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain.  TMJ pain is often perceived as ear pain, as the joint is located in the region of the outer ear, and may result in frequent headaches. Many factors may contribute to jaw pain and each factor must be addressed in order to achieve a good outcome. Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD) can occur as a result of an injury as well as from clenching or grinding teeth, dental issues, poor posture, poor ergonomics, and degenerative changes. TMD can be a painful condition; however, physical therapy intervention can assist in alleviating your symptoms.

Our physical therapists utilize a variety of evaluation and treatment techniques for TMJ pain. Through various treatment methods physical therapy can reduce pain, improve your TMJ mobility, strengthen your jaw muscles, and prevent re-injury.  Treatment techniques may include intra-oral (inside your mouth) techniques that greatly assist in alleviating jaw pain and muscle spasm.

At Balance Solutions you will be evaluated by a skilled licensed physical therapist to determine factors contributing to your condition such as; range of motion, muscle strength, upper cervical and scapulothoracic mechanics, joint mobility, soft tissue mobility, postural alignment, abnormalities in TMJ movement patterns, and body mechanics.   Following a thorough evaluation, a personalized plan of care with goals will be constructed specifically to meet your individual needs.

Our therapists specialize in many different aspects of physical therapy; working together to maximize functional gains for our patients. Balance Solutions believes in providing continual opportunities for professional growth and educational advancement.

Our therapists are trained in-house and participate in regularly scheduled in-services training as well as hands-on continuing educational courses to advance their knowledge and skills. Our staff trains as a team, all therapists can perform similar techniques with slightly different styles to accommodate the many types of patients seen at Balance Solutions. We practice what we teach, several of our therapists travel the country teaching these methods to other therapists and facilities.