Temporomandibular Joint and Muscle (TMJ) Therapy

Temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders (TMJ) refer to a range of conditions affecting the jaw muscles and the jaw joints. These disorders can lead to discomfort and pain around the mouth, jaw, neck, and ears. At Ivy Rehab, we provide specialized TMJ therapy aimed at relieving jaw pain, improving jaw movement, and restoring normal function.

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Ivy Rehab / Therapy Services / Physical Therapy / TMJ

How TMJ treatment works.

TMJ disorders affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull. This joint plays a crucial role in jaw movement, such as chewing, speaking, and yawning. When this joint or the surrounding muscles are strained or misaligned, it can lead to pain, discomfort, and a reduction in your quality of life.

While TMJ conditions are often not considered serious, they can cause long-lasting symptoms that affect everyday activities. Our physical therapists at Ivy Rehab are trained in TMJ therapy to help manage these symptoms and improve jaw function.

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Symptoms of TMJ Dysfunction

TMJ disorders can manifest in a variety of symptoms, affecting the jaw muscles and surrounding tissues. Common symptoms of TMD (temporomandibular disorders) include:

Pain in and around the jaw area
Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw when opening or closing the mouth
Headaches, especially around the temples
Locking of the jaw (difficulty opening or closing the mouth)
Jaw tightness or discomfort while chewing or speaking
Neck or cervical discomfort due to poor jaw alignment

These symptoms can range from mild to severe and can significantly impact daily activities. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, TMJ therapy can help you find relief.

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How Ivy Rehab Treats TMJ Disorders

Our TMJ treatment plan involves a combination of techniques designed to reduce jaw pain, improve jaw movement, and relieve tension in the surrounding muscles. We utilize a personalized approach to ensure the most effective treatment for each patient’s needs.

Neuromuscular Re-Education

This therapy helps restore normal jaw movement by retraining the muscles around the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) to function correctly and relieve jaw tension.

Manual Techniques

We use manual therapy to help reduce pain and improve mobility in the jaw joint. Techniques like soft tissue mobilization can help relieve muscle tightness and improve overall function.

Ultrasound, Electric Stimulation, and Heat/Ice Treatment

These modalities are used to reduce inflammation, improve blood circulation, and relieve pain. Heat and ice can be applied to reduce swelling, while electric stimulation can promote muscle relaxation and alleviate jaw discomfort.

Jaw Exercises

Jaw exercises are a key part of your treatment plan. They help strengthen the muscles surrounding the jaw, improving posture and movement. These exercises can help alleviate symptoms of TMD and prevent future jaw issues.

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FAQs

How long does TMJ therapy take to work?

The length of time to see results from TMJ therapy varies based on the severity of your condition. Many patients begin to feel relief within a few sessions, while others may need several weeks of treatment. Our physical therapists will tailor a treatment plan to help you achieve the best results in the shortest time possible.

Is TMJ therapy safe for all patients?

Yes, TMJ therapy is safe for most patients, including those with chronic jaw pain, muscle tension, or jaw mobility issues. Your physical therapist will evaluate your symptoms and develop a treatment plan that is appropriate for your specific needs.

What is TMJ dysfunction?

TMJ dysfunction (also known as TMD) refers to a disorder of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jaw to the skull. It can cause pain, discomfort, and issues with jaw movement, often resulting in symptoms like jaw pain, headaches, and jaw clicking.

Get Started with TMJ Therapy at Ivy Rehab

Relieving jaw pain and improving function takes time and specialized care. At Ivy Rehab, we provide compassionate TMJ therapy to help individuals reduce jaw discomfort, improve jaw movement, and relieve muscle tension. Our skilled therapists work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to address your symptoms and help you regain comfort and function in daily activities.

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Check out some of our 4 and 5 star reviews

Excellent

Excel Physical Therapy4.9

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I’ve been coming to this office twice a week for the past few months for shoulder rehab after a snowboarding injury, and the whole team has been amazing! Megan, my physical therapist, has done an incredible job helping me strengthen my shoulder and manage instability. Emilia has also been fantastic in guiding me through the exercises. Everyone here is friendly, professional, and truly invested in their patients’ recovery. Highly recommend!

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing this with us! – The team at Park Sports Physical Therapy, Brooklyn – Williamsburg

If I could give them 100 stars I would. They are extremely friendly and respectful. I had the pleasure of having Joe as my physical therapist. He is definitely one of the best and is very determined to make sure you achieve your goals. I will recommend any and every one to come here😊

Response from the owner:Thank you for the fantastic rating, we're so grateful! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Farmville

Amazing staff, super clean and pretty space. Therapists that are very professional and knowledgeable, and super helpful and kind front desk. Have been here for two separate injuries and would always recommend!

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing this with us! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Brooklyn – Fort Greene

Liz is great! I’m a fan. She works hard with my daughter and I really appreciate her help and Occupational Therapy expertise. She’s helping her reach the next levels and we are grateful for her dedication, patience and skills. ABC pediatrics is a great place and I highly recommend. The other staff members I’ve encountered have also been great. We’re excited for speech therapy as well – in the near future ✌️🎼🙌😀👏👏👏☯️

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words; we appreciate your feedback! – The team at ABC Pediatric Therapy – Milford

My recent experience at Excel Physical therapy in Westfield was excellent! The personal attention I received made all the difference in my recovery from a trapped nerve /neck issue . My Physical Therapist, Aaron, was outstanding and his commitment and dedication to successful outcomes for his patients was very evident as he helped me to not lose hope for improvement . He has an amazing knowledge of the human anatomy and he often explained how the muscles and nerves work together and provided me with so many "tools" that I could use at home and at work to aid my recovery and prevent further injury. In addition, Aaron's upbeat energy and sense of humor made coming to therapy something I looked forward to and will miss now that I have recovered! Special shout out to Josh who led me through my exercises with patience and kindness . The entire staff that I worked with, ( Christian, Leah, and Ebony) were very friendly and professional. I highly recommend the team at Excel in Westfield!

Response from the owner:Thank you for the great review, we really appreciate it! – The team at Excel Physical Therapy, Westfield

Ivy Rehab did wonders for my quality of life, and for someone who has mostly negative experiences with healthcare, it was refreshing to have people believe that my pain was real and could be treated. I have long-existing spinal problem exacerbated by desk work. It severely impacted my sleep and limited my physical activity for the last decade. Since, for the first time, I had insurance that would even begin to cover a non-injury specific issues, I went 2-3 times a week for two months and did the work outside of appts. It certainly wasn't easy or inexpensive, even with insurance, but my outcome was phenomenal and it's some of the most significantly positive healthcare i've ever received. Dan, Kelly, and Jihl were wonderful professionals and I genuinely appreciated their insights. I wish places like this could operate less like a business, and provide treatment to the people who need it most, but that's true of all US healthcare. But regardless of that, if you have the need, money, and time and are looking for a PT rehab, I wouldn't bother looking anywhere else. Thank you all!
<3 Sam

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words; we appreciate your feedback! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, King of Prussia

I received excellent care! Jonathan is a highly skilled and experienced practitioner. The office is easy to work with to obtain outside records and make appointments.

Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to share this review, it means so much! – The team at Excel Physical Therapy – Westfield – East Broad St

Connie Darrow is an excellent PT. She really took the time to listen and help me overcome severe pain that I was having. She got me back to full pain free functioning and now I have daily exercises that will keep me pain free. Highly recommend this office and Connie specifically.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your positive feedback, it means the world to us! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, Princeton

This was the best PT experience I have had. I got my first appointment quickly and their hours are excellent to accommodate a busy work schedule. The team at Ivy on Granby is small but mighty and everyone works together as a team. I will highly recommend them to others and go back if I am ever in need again. I can’t thank you all enough!

Response from the owner:We value your feedback, thank you for your kind words! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Norfolk – Granby

Look no further, IvyRehab will get you back feeling good in no time.

I worked with Terry for a torn labrum in my shoulder and a torn ACL, and I can’t recommend him enough. He was incredible, very attentive, super knowledgeable, and really personable. More than anything he got me back feeling healthy and playing sports in no time! The whole office has an amazing vibe. All the therapists and front desk staff really operate as a team and feel like a family. It’s a fun environment where you can tell they truly care about helping you get better and about you as a person. 10/10 would recommend this place to anyone in the area🙌🏽

Response from the owner:That's wonderful to hear – thank you so much for sharing your feedback with us! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Philadelphia – Center City

Very caring and professional staff. They take the time and listen to your concerns and struggles and work hard to find solutions to your therapy needs. Highly recommend.

Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to share this review, it means so much! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, Kokomo

My experience here was amazing. It was a great environment to be in and everyone was friendly and helpful. My therapist Connie was super sweet, reassuring, and knowledgeable. All of my questions and concerns were answered. I injured my lower back and she helped me understand where and why my pain was happening. After a month of going here I feel stronger and confident to get back into the gym. Hopefully I will never need to come back, but if I do I’m definitely coming here!

Response from the owner:It's always wonderful to hear such kind feedback , we appreciate you! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Princeton

When I was referred to IvyTherapy I was physically broken. I was constantly in pain and had limited use of my right shoulder, right hip, and left shoulder. Aaron went to work on me providing individualized, patient centered care. Aaron takes the time to understand each patient and what they hope to accomplish from the physical therapy. Aaron works with patients to accomplish their goat. Aaron is very knowledgeable and understands the underlying causes of pains and limited mobility.
Before I started physical therapy with Aaron I was sleeping in my recliner because it hurts less than sleeping in my bed. I have one more physical therapy session left and I’m sleeping in my bed and has been pain free. I have maximum use of my right shoulder, right hip, and left shoulder and no pain. I would strongly recommend Ivy Therapy and Aaron for all you physical therapy needs.

Response from the owner:Hearing this feedback means so much to us, thank you for sharing! – The team at Excel Physical Therapy – Westfield – East Broad St

I went to Ivy after previous physical therapy was not working for me. I was in agonizing pain with 2 rotator cuff tears and a SLAP tear. Scott provided one on one private sessions twice a week with videos to take home to make sure I was doing the right stretches and exercises. I now feel I won’t have to have surgery and can get back to normalcy. I realize these types of injuries don’t heal, but I have confidence I can go back to my day to day life.

Response from the owner:We're so thankful for your kind words and positive review! – The team at Excel Physical Therapy – Westfield – East Broad St

Aaron and the team at Excel Westfield helped me and my back issue from the first visit. They paid close attention to the details of my condition, and always provided answers to my questions, which helped me build confidence and understanding in the direction of my treatment. Aaron provided expert care along with attentive and guided exercises. I am so thankful for the team and for the results of their work and efforts.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your positive feedback, it means the world to us! – The team at Excel Physical Therapy, Westfield

Ivy Rehab in Willingboro has an amazing staff of people who care about your health and results! Thanks to everyone who helped get me back on my feet, including Steph, Jen and Rob. Their PTA's are also great and caring! If you're looking for Physical Therapy, this is the place to go!

Response from the owner:It’s great to hear this feedback! Thank you for taking the time to share your review! – The team at Ivy Rehab, Willingboro!

I love Ivy Rehab. My son started speech therapy here about 3 months ago and has already made progress. All office staff is friendly, knowledge, and helpful! My only complaint would be parking. It is very limited.

I highly recommend this location of Ivy Rehab. I walked in with debilitating hip pain. Ethan patiently listened to me and worked with me, talking me through each process and therapy method every week. He was accurate with a diagnosis and efficient in solving my problem. I especially appreciated that he gave me creative exercises that helped with the current activities that I enjoy. It’s been a life-changer knowing exactly what I need to do in order to alleviate and eliminate the pain all together. I also appreciate the flexibility Ivy Rehab and Ethan had in working around my schedule as needed. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend or go back should I need help again.

Response from the owner:That's wonderful to hear – thank you so much for sharing your feedback with us! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Cary

Tyler and his staff are truly amazing! I’m an avid golfer and he fixed my hip and then also my back in a very short time! I’m back playing golf at 100% now. If my back goes out again, I will immediately go back to see Tyler. I just can’t say enough!! Great place!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to share this review, it means so much! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Conshohocken

I am currently a patient at Oakland Excel. ex. I have tried other rehabs and nothing compares..It is always very clean and everyone is very friendly and helpful. Jess and John and all the assistants are always on top of things.and know me and all patients by name. Even knowing the exercise I missed. They are attentive never making you wait .Matt at the front desk always greets me by name and a smile. Adam is my therapist .He has helped me so much with both my meniscus repairs 6 weeks apart. I have progressed because he always helps me to go a little further. At the same time making sure I’m comfortable . He checks in throughout my workout reminding me to straighten my leg .. I never feel rushed . He. Is also very knowledgeable always answering any questions and explaining all about my meniscus repair and any concerns or questions . I appreciate that Adam and the whole crew take time to demonstrate and explain each exercise and show me again if I need to tweak anything. If the exercises seems too easy they introduce weights or a band and add new exercises to the routine . Thank you Adam , Jeff and Kelly and the whole crew for making rehab a positive successful experience. I highly recommend the Oakland facility and Adam to anyone in need of rehab. They won’t regret trusting this exceptional team .

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing this with us! – The team at Excel Physical Therapy – Oakland

Great experience. My therapist, Chris, was extremely knowledgeable regarding treatment options for my Achilles tendinitis. Very personable and hands on. Thank you, Chris.

Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to share this review, it means so much! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, Caledonia