TMJ & Jaw Pain: How Physio in Geelong Can Help
Updated: Nov 2
Living with jaw pain can be a daily challenge. Temporomandibular disorders (TMD), which affect the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, can disrupt eating, speaking and even sleeping. TMD is common, affecting around 1 in 10 adults, and the good news is that most cases improve with conservative care. If you're in Geelong and experiencing jaw pain, physiotherapy at MOVE Sports Physio & Pilates can help.
Understanding the TMJ: Anatomy and Function
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your lower jaw (mandible) to the temporal bone of your skull. It's a complex joint that allows chewing, talking and yawning. A small disc within the joint helps it glide smoothly.
When the joint or the surrounding muscles become sensitive or overloaded, it can lead to pain and restricted movement, known as a temporomandibular disorder.
Causes of TMJ Pain
Muscle overload: Clenching or grinding (bruxism), during the day or at night, can overwork the jaw muscles.
Joint and disc changes: Changes in how the disc moves within the joint can cause clicking or locking.
Stress and sleep: Stress and poor sleep are strongly linked with jaw clenching and increased pain sensitivity.
Injury: A blow to the jaw, or prolonged mouth opening such as long dental procedures.
Habits and posture: Chewing on one side, nail biting, gum chewing or sustained postures.
Symptoms of TMJ-Related Pain
Jaw pain or tenderness
Clicking or popping when you move your jaw
Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
Headaches, particularly around the temples
Ear pain, fullness or ringing
Neck and shoulder tension
Clicking on its own, without pain or locking, is common and usually not a concern. If pain persists or your jaw locks, it's worth having it assessed.
How Physio in Geelong Can Help TMJ Pain
Our physiotherapists offer a tailored, non-invasive approach to relieving jaw pain and restoring function. Current evidence and clinical guidelines recommend conservative care, including education, self-management, exercise therapy and manual therapy, as the first-line treatment for most TMD.
What to expect
We begin with a detailed assessment to understand what's driving your jaw pain, including jaw movement, muscle sensitivity, neck function, habits, stress and sleep.
Individualised treatment plans
Education and self-management: Understanding your symptoms, resting the jaw during flare-ups (soft diet, avoiding wide yawns and gum) and identifying clenching habits.
Exercise therapy: Jaw exercises to improve control and range of motion, plus neck and upper-body exercises. This may include Clinical Pilates and strength training.
Soft tissue therapy: Easing tension in the jaw, neck and shoulder muscles.
Joint mobilisation: Gentle hands-on techniques to improve jaw and neck movement.
Stress and breathing strategies: Techniques like box breathing (inhale for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4) can reduce tension and clenching.
Teamwork: Where needed, we work with your dentist, for example if a night splint may help with grinding.
Examples of myofascial release and trigger point therapy
Did you know there's a strong link between neck pain, headaches and jaw pain? Read more about TMJ and jaw pain here.
Relief for Your Jaw Is Possible
Most TMJ problems improve with the right combination of education, exercise and hands-on care.
You don't have to put up with jaw pain, clicking or headaches.
👉 Book your TMJ assessment with one of our experienced physiotherapists today.
