Do you experience jaw pain, clicking sounds when you open your mouth, or difficulty chewing or yawning? You could be dealing with TMJ Dysfunction—a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jawbone to your skull. This small but complex joint is involved in nearly every motion of the face, and when it becomes irritated or dysfunctional, it can cause a wide range of frustrating symptoms.
At Perfect Motion Physiotherapy in Adelaide, we help patients overcome jaw discomfort and dysfunction with gentle, targeted, and holistic physiotherapy. If you’re tired of persistent pain or tension in your jaw, neck, or face—help is just a step away.
Why Does TMJ Dysfunction Happen?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a sliding hinge that allows you to speak, eat, yawn, and express emotion. It’s supported by muscles, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage—making it vulnerable to both structural and muscular problems.
TMJ Dysfunction (sometimes referred to as TMD) can develop due to a number of reasons, including:
- Misalignment of the jaw or teeth
- Excessive jaw clenching or teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Stress-induced tension in facial and neck muscles
- Trauma or injury to the jaw or face
- Arthritis or joint inflammation
- Postural strain from the neck or upper back
Dysfunction in this joint can also influence the surrounding structures, leading to symptoms beyond just jaw pain.
Common Causes and Symptoms of TMJ Dysfunction
Our physiotherapists commonly treat TMJ symptoms such as:
- Jaw pain on one or both sides
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing the mouth
- Limited jaw movement or locking
- Headaches or migraines, especially around the temples
- Pain with chewing, talking, or yawning
- Tension in the neck, face, or shoulders
- Earaches, ringing in the ears, or a feeling of fullness
- Dizziness or facial tightness
- Referred pain into the teeth, eyes, or throat
Understanding Your Condition
TMJ Dysfunction can often be influenced by multiple factors. Our approach involves a comprehensive assessment of your jaw, neck, and posture to identify the true source of your symptoms.
Your condition may fall into one of these categories:
- Acute: Recently developed due to trauma, dental work, or stress
- Chronic: Persistent or recurring jaw tension and pain
- Mechanical: Caused by joint alignment or movement issues
- Muscular: Linked to tension or weakness in the facial and neck muscles
- Postural: Related to forward head posture or upper cervical spine strain
How Perfect Motion Physiotherapy Can Help
At Perfect Motion Physiotherapy, we take a whole-body, integrated approach to treating TMJ Dysfunction. We go beyond just the jaw—examining the neck, shoulders, upper back, and overall posture to ensure long-lasting results.
Your personalised treatment plan may include:
- Manual therapy for jaw, neck, and cranial soft tissue release
- Joint mobilisation to restore normal TMJ movement
- Electro Physical agents to reduce pain and improve blood flow.
- Myofascial release techniques for head, jaw, and upper neck tension
- Jaw alignment and coordination exercises
- Postural correction and neck mobility training
- Relaxation and breathing strategies to reduce jaw clenching
- Education on sleep position, tongue posture, and bite habits
- Referral support if dental, ENT, or splint therapy is required
We work collaboratively with other healthcare providers (including dentists and GPs) to ensure you get comprehensive care when needed.
We also collaborate with your GP or other health professionals if your condition is complex or involves neurological symptoms.
Don’t Let Jaw Pain Control Your Day
Whether your jaw pain is new or something you’ve lived with for years, there is a solution. At Perfect Motion Physiotherapy in Adelaide, our team is here to help you rediscover pain-free movement, confident speaking, and comfortable chewing—without relying on medication or invasive procedures.
Book your consultation today and take the first step toward relieving TMJ pain with expert guidance and holistic care.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for general educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.
