PHYSICAL THERAPY FOR HEADACHES AND TMJ
If you’re struggling with recurring headaches or persistent jaw pain, you’re not alone. Many patients across Chicago and the northwest suburbs — including Mount Prospect, Des Plaines, Arlington Heights, and Park Ridge — come to PD Rehab searching for real, lasting relief. Whether your symptoms are related to tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches, migraines, or TMJ dysfunction, physical therapy can be one of the most effective, drug-free solutions.
At PD Rehab in Mount Prospect, our therapists specialize in identifying the underlying source of your pain and creating a personalized treatment plan. A key difference between us and large chain clinics is our expertise in Fascial Counterstrain, an advanced manual therapy performed by only two clinics in all of Illinois, allowing our patients to achieve results even when other treatments haven’t helped.
TMJ DISORDER — SYMPTOMS & EFFECTIVE TREATMENT
TMJ dysfunction can cause far more than jaw pain. Many patients experience headaches, facial tension, ear pressure, neck pain, dizziness, or clicking in the jaw — symptoms that are often misunderstood or misdiagnosed. According to research summarized by the Mayo Clinic, TMJ-related issues commonly lead to referred pain into the head, temples, and upper neck.
Because the jaw and neck are so closely connected, irritation in the TMJ can easily trigger headaches or facial pressure. Some people feel symptoms during chewing or talking, while others experience discomfort throughout the day.
At PD Rehab in Mount Prospect, we focus on identifying the exact source of dysfunction. Treatment may include gentle manual therapy, myofascial work, mobilization of the jaw and upper cervical spine, and advanced interventions such as Fascial Counterstrain, which addresses nerve irritation, fascial tension, and vascular strain — often key contributors to TMJ-related headaches.
For more TMJ-specific guidance, visit our detailed blog post.
Headache Relief With Physical Therapy
Many headaches are musculoskeletal — not neurological. The most common types we treat include:
• Tension headaches, often caused by stress, long computer work, or tight shoulder muscles
• Cervicogenic (neck-related) headaches, which originate from joint or nerve irritation in the cervical spine
• Stress-related headaches, often linked to poor sleep, jaw clenching, or emotional load
Learn more about these conditions in our full article on headaches and migraines.
Medication may temporarily reduce pain, but it does not correct the underlying dysfunction. Physical therapy works because it:
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reduces muscle tension in the neck and jaw
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restores normal joint mechanics
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improves circulation and nerve mobility
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corrects posture and daily movement habits
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calms an overactive nervous system
Harvard Health notes that tension and stress-related headaches are strongly linked to neck mechanics, muscle strain, and lifestyle factors — exactly the areas addressed by skilled physical therapy.
At PD Rehab, our therapists use Fascial Counterstrain, hands-on manual techniques, and neuromuscular re-education to treat the root causes of headaches — not just the symptoms.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS About Headaches and TMJ
What does a TMJ headache feel like?
TMJ headaches often begin near the temples, jaw joint, or ears and may radiate into the neck and shoulders. They frequently include jaw tightness or clicking.
Can TMJ cause headaches every day?
Yes. Chronic TMJ dysfunction can irritate nearby muscles and nerves, creating ongoing pain. Physical therapy restores balance and reduces tension.
Can jaw problems cause headaches?
Absolutely. Jaw clenching, grinding, or joint dysfunction can refer pain into the head, face, and neck. Treating the jaw can significantly reduce headache frequency.
What causes TMJ headaches?
They often result from muscle tension, joint misalignment, bruxism, or poor posture. Research from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) confirms that TMJ disorders frequently cause head and neck pain.
Can physical therapy really help headaches?
Start Your Journey to Recovery
If you want long-lasting relief without medications or temporary fixes, our specialized TMJ and headache treatment program can help you feel better and regain control of your life. Schedule your evaluation today!