Conditions we treat
TMJ, Jaw & Headache Concerns
Physiotherapy for jaw function and selected face, head and neck symptoms with a musculoskeletal contribution.
Understanding your concern
Start with an individual assessment.
Jaw symptoms may be influenced by the temporomandibular joints, chewing muscles, neck, habits and dental factors. A focused assessment helps determine which components may respond to physiotherapy.
Care is gentle and individualized, with an emphasis on comfortable movement, coordination and practical strategies you can use between visits.
What we commonly see
Common presentations
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Limited mouth opening
- Clicking with movement changes
- Face or temple muscle tension
- Jaw fatigue with eating or speaking
- Headaches associated with neck or jaw symptoms
Condition guide
Learn more about common concerns.
Open a topic for a short, plain-language overview.
Temporomandibular disorder (TMD)
TMD is an umbrella term for problems involving the jaw joints, chewing muscles and related structures. Symptoms may include pain, stiffness, fatigue, clicking or difficulty opening the mouth.
Restricted jaw opening
Limited opening may develop with joint irritation, muscle guarding, dental procedures or other conditions. Assessment looks at the movement pattern and helps determine whether gentle mobility and coordination work are appropriate.
Jaw clicking or locking
Clicking can occur when joint structures move differently during opening or closing and does not always require treatment. Painful clicking, catching or locking should be assessed to determine the best next step.
Myofascial jaw pain
Sensitive chewing muscles may cause pain in the jaw, cheek or temple and may be aggravated by clenching, chewing or prolonged mouth opening. Care may include education, relaxation strategies, exercise and manual therapy.
Cervicogenic headache
A cervicogenic headache is related to structures in the neck and is often accompanied by limited or painful neck movement. Physiotherapy may address neck mobility, strength and contributing postures or activities.
Tension-type headache
Tension-type headaches commonly feel like pressure or tightness on both sides of the head. Physiotherapy may help when neck or muscle factors contribute, while new, severe or changing headaches require medical assessment.
A practical path forward
Physiotherapy may include
- 01Jaw and neck movement assessment
- 02Habit and trigger education
- 03Mobility and coordination exercises
- 04Neck and postural strengthening
- 05Manual therapy when appropriate
- 06Coordination with dental or medical care