TMJ

Booking Note: For TMJ-related concerns, please schedule an appointment with Aly Tisthammer, PT, DPT, our TMJ specialist.

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are significantly more common in women than men. Key prevalence statistics:

• General Population: TMJ disorders affect approximately 5-12% of the population.

• Women vs. Men: Women are 2 to 4 times more likely to develop TMJ disorders than men.

• Age Group: The highest prevalence is among women aged 20-40.

• Severe Cases: Chronic and severe TMJ disorders (often requiring medical intervention) are 9 times more common in women.

Why Women Are More Affected

• Hormonal Influence: Estrogen may affect the TMJ and pain sensitivity.

• Hypermobility: Women have greater ligament laxity, which can contribute to joint instability.

• Higher Prevalence of Bruxism & Stress Disorders: Clenching and grinding are often linked to TMJ dysfunction.

TMJ & Pelvic Floor Connection

• Fascial Link – Jaw, diaphragm, and pelvic floor are interconnected.

• Posture – Poor alignment affects pelvic stability.

• Stress Response – Clenching and pelvic tension often coexist.

• Breathing – Dysfunctional breathing disrupts core-pelvic function.

• Shared Conditions – EDS, fibromyalgia, and anxiety impact both.

How We Can Help

Physical therapy can be highly effective in treating temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, addressing pain, mobility issues, and muscle imbalances. Here’s how PT can help:

Manual Therapy

• Joint Mobilization: Gentle hands-on techniques improve TMJ movement and alignment.

• Soft Tissue Massage: Relieves tension in the jaw, neck, and surrounding muscles.

• Myofascial Release: Targets trigger points in the masseter, temporalis, and pterygoid muscles.

Exercises for TMJ

• Controlled Jaw Movements: Improves coordination and reduces clicking or locking.

• Isometric Strengthening: Builds muscle support around the joint.

• Tongue and Posture Training: Helps maintain proper jaw positioning.

Postural Correction

Many TMJ issues are linked to poor neck and head posture. PT addresses:

• Forward head posture (which strains the jaw)

• Upper back and neck alignment

• Ergonomic corrections for daily activities

Pain Management

• Cold/Heat Therapy: Reduces inflammation and muscle tightness.

Education & Habit Modifications

• Avoiding excessive gum chewing, nail-biting, and jaw clenching

• Relaxation techniques to reduce stress-related jaw tension

• Breathing exercises to decrease jaw tightness

Coordination with Other Providers

• Collaboration with dentists for bite alignment or splints

• Working with orofacial pain specialists for complex cases

Booking Note: For TMJ-related concerns, please schedule an appointment with Aly Tisthammer, PT, DPT, our TMJ specialist.