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TMJ Dysfunction (颞下颌关节紊乱): How Physiotherapy Can Help Relieve Jaw Pain

  • Writer: Jonathan Chew
    Jonathan Chew
  • Jun 25, 2025
  • 3 min read

Updated: Jan 9

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) dysfunction is a common condition that affects the joint connecting the jaw to the skull. It can cause pain, stiffness, clicking sounds, headaches, and difficulty opening or closing the mouth. Many people are unaware that physiotherapy plays an important role in managing TMJ dysfunction effectively and conservatively.

At Ease Physio & Rehab in Setapak, Kuala Lumpur, we regularly see patients with jaw pain that is closely related to muscle tightness, posture issues, and neck or upper back dysfunction.



What is TMJ Dysfunction?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is located just in front of the ear on each side of the head. It allows the jaw to move smoothly during talking, chewing, and yawning. TMJ dysfunction occurs when the joint, surrounding muscles, or movement patterns become impaired.

Common symptoms of TMJ dysfunction include:

  • Jaw pain or tenderness

  • Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening the mouth

  • Difficulty or pain when chewing

  • Jaw stiffness or limited mouth opening

  • Headaches or facial pain

  • Neck and upper back discomfort

These symptoms can be mild at first but may worsen over time if left untreated.



Common Causes of TMJ Dysfunction

TMJ dysfunction is rarely caused by one factor alone. It is often a combination of muscular, postural, and mechanical issues, including:

  • Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)

  • Poor posture, especially forward head posture

  • Prolonged desk or computer work

  • Stress leading to increased jaw muscle tension

  • Previous jaw or facial trauma

  • Arthritis or degenerative joint changes

Poor posture of the neck and upper back can significantly increase strain on the jaw muscles and joint, which is why TMJ pain often coexists with neck or shoulder discomfort.



How Physiotherapy Helps TMJ Dysfunction

Physiotherapy focuses on addressing the root causes of TMJ dysfunction rather than only relieving symptoms.

At Ease Physio & Rehab, Setapak, our physiotherapy approach may include the following:


Manual Therapy

Hands-on techniques are used to:

  • Reduce muscle tension around the jaw, neck, and upper back

  • Improve mobility of the jaw joint

  • Decrease pain and stiffness

Manual therapy can help restore normal movement patterns of the TMJ and surrounding structures.


Therapeutic Exercises

Specific exercises are prescribed to:

  • Improve jaw control and coordination

  • Strengthen weak muscles

  • Enhance mobility and stability of the TMJ

These exercises are tailored to each individual and are an essential part of long-term recovery.


Posture Correction

Postural issues, especially involving the neck and upper back, can directly affect jaw mechanics. Physiotherapy helps by:

  • Correcting forward head posture

  • Improving spinal alignment

  • Reducing unnecessary strain on the jaw muscles

Posture correction is often a key factor in preventing symptom recurrence.


Education and Self-Management

Patients are educated on:

  • Proper jaw positioning

  • Activity modification

  • Strategies to reduce clenching and overuse


This empowers patients to manage their condition effectively outside the clinic.



Self-Care Tips for TMJ Discomfort

While physiotherapy treatment is important, simple self-care strategies can help reduce symptoms:

  • Avoid excessive chewing (gum, hard foods)

  • Avoid wide mouth opening during yawning

  • Maintain good sitting posture, especially during desk work

  • Apply gentle heat to tight jaw or neck muscles

  • Be mindful of jaw clenching during stress

These measures can support recovery and reduce flare-ups.



When Should You See a Physiotherapist

You should consider seeing a physiotherapist if you experience:

  • Persistent jaw pain lasting more than a few weeks

  • Clicking or locking of the jaw with pain

  • Difficulty opening or closing the mouth

  • TMJ symptoms associated with neck or upper back pain

  • Headaches related to jaw tension

Early physiotherapy intervention can prevent symptoms from becoming chronic.



Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can TMJ dysfunction go away on its own?

Mild cases may improve, but persistent symptoms often require proper assessment and treatment to prevent worsening.


Can posture really affect jaw pain?

Yes. Poor posture, especially forward head posture, significantly increases strain on the jaw and neck muscles.


Is physiotherapy safe for TMJ dysfunction?

Yes. Physiotherapy is a conservative and evidence-based approach that focuses on improving movement, muscle function, and posture.



TMJ Physiotherapy in Setapak, Kuala Lumpur

If you are experiencing jaw pain, clicking, or stiffness, physiotherapy can help.


At Ease Physio & Rehab in Setapak, Kuala Lumpur, our physiotherapists provide personalised assessment and treatment for TMJ dysfunction, focusing on long-term relief and functional improvement.


Contact us today to book an appointment and take the first step towards better jaw health.



 
 
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