TMJ Physiotherapy (Jaw Pain Treatment) in Gorey
Jaw pain, clicking or difficulty opening your mouth can be frustrating and often affect everyday activities such as eating, speaking and yawning. Pain around the jaw is often related to irritation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or the muscles that control jaw movement.
The TMJ connects the jawbone to the skull and works closely with the muscles of the face, neck and head. We specialise in assessing and treating TMJ problems using an evidence-based approach. Many TMJ issues are closely linked to the neck, posture and muscle tension – by treating these contributing factors, physiotherapy can help reduce pain and restore normal jaw function.
Jaw Problems We Treat
Our Approach: Diagnose, Treat, Rehabilitate
Diagnose – assess the jaw, neck and contributing factors.
Treat – reduce pain and muscle tension.
Rehabilitate – restore normal movement and prevent recurrence.
Common Symptoms of TMJ Dysfunction
- Pain in the jaw, face or around the ear
- Clicking, popping or locking of the jaw
- Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
- Headaches (especially around the temples)
- Neck and upper back pain
- Ear symptoms such as fullness or ringing (tinnitus)
- Toothache without a dental cause
These symptoms often develop gradually and may fluctuate over time.
What Causes TMJ Pain?
TMJ dysfunction can develop due to a combination of factors, including clenching or grinding the teeth, muscle tension in the jaw or neck, stress-related jaw tightening, poor posture (especially desk-based work), trauma to the jaw or face, and neck stiffness or dysfunction. The jaw and neck are closely connected, which is why both areas are often assessed and treated together.
How Physiotherapy Helps TMJ Pain
Following a detailed assessment, treatment focuses on restoring movement and reducing muscle tension. Physiotherapy may include:
- Manual therapy – gentle techniques to improve movement in the jaw joint.
- Muscle treatment – treatment of tight muscles in the jaw, face and neck.
- Postural correction – improving posture to reduce strain on the jaw and neck.
- Neck & upper back treatment – addressing stiffness in the cervical spine to support jaw function.
- Advice on jaw habits – guidance on reducing clenching, grinding and other aggravating habits.
TMJ, Neck Pain and Headaches
Jaw problems are often closely linked with neck pain and headaches. You may notice headaches alongside jaw tension, neck stiffness with jaw pain, or symptoms aggravated by posture or desk work. Treating the neck and improving posture can play a key role in reducing TMJ symptoms.
Specialist TMJ & Jaw Pain Assessment
TMJ assessment and treatment is provided by Emily Slaven, who has over 29 years of experience in treating complex musculoskeletal conditions.
This specialist service is particularly helpful if you have persistent or recurring jaw pain, experience headaches linked to jaw tension, have not improved with previous treatment, or are unsure of the cause of your symptoms.
When Should You Seek Treatment?
You may benefit from physiotherapy if you experience ongoing jaw pain, clicking or locking of the jaw, difficulty opening your mouth, headaches linked to jaw tension, or ear pain without infection. Early treatment can help prevent symptoms becoming more persistent.
Book a TMJ Assessment
TMJ problems can persist if the underlying causes are not addressed. We combine accurate diagnosis, hands-on treatment and targeted rehabilitation to help restore normal jaw function and reduce pain. When booking, select “Initial Physiotherapy Appointment”.
