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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Ivy Rehab Monroe is a very nice, new facility with exceptional staff. Matt, Olivia, and Rick and excellent therapists, and Amanda is such a welcome sight upon entering the clinic. Highly recommend!
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 – Monroe MI
Just a great place, very clean facility and amenities. Paige and her entire staff are very friendly. I just had my last session and it was bittersweet that I'm leaving the great people behind, but leaving with a positive feeling as my knee replacement rehab could not have been any better. Highly recommend Ivy rehab for all needs. Attention to detail and the programs laid out for me was fantastic. The staff will be missed, but I'll visit them!
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 – North Arlington
How patient and kind they are with me and I enjoy how you guys have rides to pick us up bring us back home because I use a walker and in the rain I don't really go anywhere so it's a good thing to have the rides pick you up to go to therapy and I love Terry Amanda Chris I just love it there again though the energy in there is amazing to me
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, we appreciate your feedback! – The team at Ivy Rehab, Philadelphia
🗣️Not enough stars can be selected for this team. They are awesome guys🥰 If you were in a car accident(me), an accident at work or have any back,knee,hip injuries I highly recommend them. Chris, Brandon, Terry, Cori Jackie & Sidney are a whole vibe💃🏽 not only are they the best in their field they will make you laugh 😂 while making you better🤗 don't believe me go check them out and say Asia sent you💋
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, we appreciate your feedback! – The team at Ivy Rehab PT, Chesapeake
They are very professional and very caring.The group at B street are very good at what they know and how to help everyone with what their pain is and how to manage it .They have made my life so much better and pain free.and teaches you how to control it with the right exercise to strengthen.Thank you so much for these wonderful therapy.
Response from the owner:We value your feedback, thank you for your kind words! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, Chesapeake – South Norfolk
Wonderful and caring team! I wish I'd had access to physical therapy of this standard earlier in my life. Thank you, Bob, Helen, and everyone else at Ivy Rehab!
Response from the owner:Your kind review made our day – thank you so much! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Princeton
My 10 year old son had the best learning experience here. He enjoyed the atmosphere and the interaction with staff. A truly caring, understanding place to help your child. Very thankful
Response from the owner:We're so thankful for your kind words and positive review! – The team at ABC Pediatric Therapy – Cincinnati – Western Hills
Start of knee replacement physical therapy….great session 1 with Dylan and we have about 14 more before complete….everyone was fantastic on 1st visit.
Response from the owner:Thanks for giving us 5-stars, it means so much to our team! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Farmville
I love my Ivy team in Moorestown. They care, and they really listen to their patients. They developed a physical therapy campaign for me that increases strength, balance, and confidence. The staff is wonderfully kind and intelligent.
Response from the owner:Hearing this feedback means so much to us, thank you for sharing! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Moorestown
I took my daughter here for 2 months and Hannah was amazing with my daughter . She never wanted to leave . I really felt like she was able to understand my daughter. So sad that we had to transfer to a location closer to home. But if this location is near you I 100% recommend Hannah and Erica . They are amazing .
Response from the owner:We value your feedback, thank you for your kind words! – The team at Ivy Rehab for Kids, Virginia Beach – General Booth
Everyone is great. Kelly helped me build up strength on my right side so when I had my left knee done I'd be able to handle the rehab. Walking is a good thing. Thank you so much.
Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing this with us! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, King of Prussia
Hadn’t been to Ivy since before they changed names but happy to say that quality of service has only gotten better over time. The front desk is always helpful with any issues you may have, going above and beyond to help you get things resolved. All of the staff is super friendly making you feel right at home. I personally worked with Lydia & to say that she is great is an understatement. No nonsense, very compassionate towards the issues you may be dealing with and overall just pleasant to deal with. Cannot suggest Ivy enough to anybody needing to recover from injuries!
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 Physical Therapy – Island Park
This therapy practice has knowledgeable and friendly staff and flexible hours, and Maryellen was always helpful, creative, and experienced in assisting me with my issues.
Response from the owner:Your kind review made our day, thank you so much! – The team at Back in Action Physical Therapy – Apex
A huge thank you to the entire team for guiding me through my 6-month recovery after shoulder surgery. Your kindness and constant encouragement were truly appreciated and helped me stay positive every step of the way. ^^
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 – Cary
Had such a great experience. My son broke his leg and Jason Klein took such good care of him. Scheduling appointments was so easy. Jason made it fun for my 8 year old to do PT. I highly recommend.
Response from the owner:Hi Nate! Thank you so much for sharing you and your son's experiences with Jason. We're so happy that he was able to help him!
After just a handful of visits to Excel and working with Aaron and Jon and the staff, I am already feeling stronger and excited to commit to my recovery with their expertise and encouragement. Aaron has already gone above and beyond during sessions to truly understand my injury and source of discomfort and to give realistic progression expectations. Their interactions with me and other patients in the office has been caring, professional and knowledgeable. It is a truly well-staffed, well-run operation and I highly recommend.
Response from the owner:It’s great to hear this feedback! Thank you for taking the time to share your review! – The team at Excel Physical Therapy, Westfield
Tearing my achilles roughly 8 months ago, I knew I needed to find a physical therapist that would push and challenge me daily. Going to Excel for the first time I realized I was at the right place. My experience started from the time I walked in the door with Colleen and Kris at the front desk. Always positive and willing to help. As far as how my actual therapy went, I had the pleasure of working with both Joe and Holly. Being a competitive athlete who was a collegiate athlete and also competed in ultra marathons, jiu-jitsu, etc. I was challenged daily to get me back to my goals. If I had to rate my experience with Excel 1-10, the answer would be an easy 10. Currently back to running and normal activities with no pain. Thank you to Excel.
Response from the owner:We're thrilled you had such a positive experience, thank you! – The team at Excel Physical Therapy – West Deptford – 1007 Mantua Pke
I came in with a neck issue and Ethan evaluated me. He was enthusiastic and extremely knowledgeable. Ethan educated me thoroughly on exercises to help me improve my issues and tried to discover new ways to help me while in his care. I had a great experience. Thanks Ethan!
Response from the owner:It's always wonderful to hear such kind feedback , we appreciate you! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Cary
Caroline provided truly exceptional care. Because of her care and dedication, I finally feel like I’m getting back to being myself again I’m so grateful for her guidance and highly recommend her to anyone looking for someone who truly cares about their well-being.
Response from the owner:Thank you for the great review, we really appreciate it! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Cary
The entire therapy team is top-notch. They are so good at what they do that I returned to receive treatment when I had a second injury. They work extremely well together and make all patients feel comfortable and improve their health. I personally have recommended them numerous times.
Response from the owner:Thank you for the fantastic rating, we’re so grateful! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Norfolk – Granby
This place is the best! Everyone from the front desk, the assistants to the therapists. They helped me with my pre and post surgery for a torn labrum in my hip. I highly recommend them!
Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing this with us! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, Hoboken – Midtown