Understanding TMJ Pain – And How Physiotherapy Can Help
If you’ve ever experienced pain in your jaw while chewing, speaking, or even resting, you may be dealing with TMJ dysfunction—a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jawbone to your skull.
TMJ issues can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and can interfere with everyday activities like eating, talking, or even sleeping. The good news? Physiotherapy offers a safe and effective path to relief—and at Uniphysio, we have a TMJ specialist on our team who can help.
What Is TMJ Dysfunction?
TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction refers to a group of conditions that affect the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. Common symptoms include:
Jaw pain or tenderness
Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds
Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
Headaches, neck pain, or earaches
Facial tension or swelling
These symptoms are often caused by factors like:
Poor posture
Teeth grinding (bruxism)
Jaw misalignment
Stress or tension
Injury or overuse
How Can Physiotherapy Help?
Physiotherapy focuses on addressing the root cause of your TMJ pain, not just masking the symptoms. A trained physiotherapist will assess your jaw movement, posture, and muscle function, then design a personalized treatment plan.
Common physiotherapy treatments for TMJ include:
Manual therapy to release muscle tension and restore joint mobility
Postural correction to reduce strain on the jaw and neck
Jaw exercises to improve strength, alignment, and control
Education and lifestyle advice to manage stress and prevent flare-ups
Laser therapy (available at Uniphysio) to reduce inflammation and promote healing
Meet Our TMJ Expert – Elaine Ruz
At Uniphysio, we’re proud to have Elaine Ruz, an experienced physiotherapist who specializes in treating TMJ dysfunction. Her hands-on approach, combined with evidence-based techniques, has helped many patients regain comfort and function in their daily lives.
If you’re struggling with jaw pain, don’t wait for it to get worse. Early intervention can prevent chronic issues and significantly improve your quality of life.
Ready to Feel Better?
We’re here to help. Book your TMJ assessment and treatment session with Elaine today by visiting uniphysio.janeapp.com or calling us at 905-997-1677. We’re happy to assist!
Uniphysio – Your Partner in Pain-Free Living