Visit Agape Physio for...

Jaw Pain (Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction)

Jaw pain is a common condition that can interfere with daily activities such as eating, speaking and sleeping. It is often referred to as temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD) as one of the most common sources of jaw pain comes from the dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jaw to the skull. Depending on the population, TMD affects approximately 5-12% of the population with adults aged 20-40 years and women being more frequently affected (Lomas et al., 2018). Physiotherapy plays an important role in assessing these underlying causes for jaw pain and has been shown to be an effective in the management of TMD, improving pain, movement and function (Skorupa-Strojna & Kulesa-Mrowiecka, 2026)

About this condition

TMD can stem from a variety of factors including muscle tension, joint dysfunction, teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), poor posture, stress, or previous injury to the jaw or neck. The TMJ is a complex joint that is closely connected to the muscles of the jaw, neck, and shoulders, so dysfunction in one area can often result in pain or stiffness in another area. Due to this connection, jaw pain frequently overlaps with neck pain, headaches, and postural issues, and addressing these related areas is often key to long-term relief.

What you may be feeling

  • Pain or tenderness around the jaw, ear or temple that increases when chewing
  • Difficulty opening the mouth or locking of the jaw
  • Headaches
  • Neck pain
  • Clicking, popping or locking of the jaw
  • Tension along the neck and shoulders
  • Jaw muscle tightness or fatigue especially after waking

 

How we can help you

Comprehensive Assessment

We identify the contributing factors for your jaw pain, whether it be related to the jaw, neck, muscle tension, posture, or other musculoskeletal factors and determine whether physiotherapy is appropriate.

Manual Therapy

Hands-on techniques including soft tissue release and joint mobilisations to reduce tension in the jaw, neck, and surrounding muscles, and improve movement of the TMJ.

Postural Correction

Guidance on addressing postural habits, especially forward head posture, that can place additional strain on the jaw and neck.

Education on Habits and Triggers

Help to identify and manage habits such as teeth grinding, clenching, or nail biting that may be contributing to your symptoms, along with strategies to help manage them.

Exercise Therapy

A tailored exercise program to address your contributing factors and improve jaw mobility, strengthen supporting muscles, and improve movement patterns around the joint.

So, what's next?

Being faced with an injury or being told by a health practitioner to undergo a particular treatment can be quite daunting. That’s why we are here to help you. You can book a 15-minute video consult to ask your trusted health practitioners any questions you may have on your mind. No judgement, no strings attached and most importantly, no fees!