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PHYSICAL THERAPY FOR HEADACHES AND TMJ

Are you struggling with chronic headaches or jaw pain? Whether you’re experiencing tension headaches, migraines, cervicogenic headaches, or pain from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, physical therapy for TMJ and headaches can be a highly effective, drug-free solution.

At PD Rehab, our expert physical therapists specialize in identifying the root causes of your discomfort and designing personalized physical therapy treatment plans for headaches and TMJ pain. We go beyond temporary fixes by targeting the underlying sources of dysfunction, helping you achieve long-term relief and regain control of your daily life.

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TMJ DISORDER SYMPTOMS

Temporomandibular Joint disorder can lead to a variety of symptoms that may extend beyond the jaw, often creating confusion. Many individuals experience chronic headaches, which are frequently mistaken for tension or migraine headaches. Additionally, upper neck pain can occur due to the close relationship between the jaw and the cervical spine. Pain may be felt in the jaw joint, lower and upper jaw, or at the point where the lower and upper jaws meet. This discomfort can be constant or may arise during activities such as chewing, talking, or yawning. People with TMJ issues often experience clicking, popping, or even a locking sensation in the jaw, making everyday activities uncomfortable or difficult. Some individuals may deal with a dislocated jaw or a displaced disc within the joint, which can contribute to restricted motion and inflammation. Beyond pain and joint dysfunction, TMJ disorder can also cause ringing in the ears (tinnitus), dizziness, or a persistent feeling of imbalance. These symptoms may be mistakenly attributed to inner ear or neurological problems.

At PD Rehab, our physical therapists specialize in identifying the underlying causes of TMJ symptoms and providing targeted, non-invasive treatments to relieve pain and restore functionality.

PHYSICAL THERAPY FOR HEADACHES AND TMJ

At PD Rehab, we take an evidence-based approach to physical therapy for headaches and TMJ pain that is tailored to your individual needs. We specialize in treating different headache types and jaw disorders by addressing the root causes rather than just the symptoms. One of our most advanced techniques is Fascial Counterstrain, which is effective for headaches and TMJ dysfunction. This gentle, highly specialized manual therapy alleviates fascial and neuromuscular restrictions that often contribute to chronic headaches, TMJ pain, nerve entrapments, and the vascular or dural imbalances associated with migraines.

In addition to Fascial Counterstrain, we use hands-on manual therapy to relieve jaw pain and headaches. This approach helps restore joint mobility, reduce muscle tension, and improve circulation in the neck, jaw, and head. Our team also focuses on postural training to correct misalignments and movement habits that can trigger tension headaches and TMJ-related discomfort. Through neuromuscular re-education, we help retrain your body to move more efficiently, reducing strain on sensitive areas. To support long-term recovery, we provide customized therapeutic exercise programs designed to strengthen key muscles, enhance flexibility, and help prevent future flare-ups.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS About Headaches and TMJ

What does a TMJ headache feel like?

A TMJ headache often feels like a dull, aching pain that starts near the temples, jaw joint, or around the ears and can radiate to the neck and shoulders. It may be accompanied by jaw tightness, clicking sounds when opening the mouth, or facial tenderness. Some patients also describe TMJ headaches as similar to tension headaches but with added jaw discomfort.

Can TMJ cause headaches every day?

Yes, chronic TMJ dysfunction can lead to daily headaches. When the jaw joint is misaligned or under constant stress, it can irritate surrounding muscles and nerves, leading to frequent or even constant head pain. Physical therapy for TMJ can help address the root causes of this daily discomfort.

Can jaw problems cause headaches?

Absolutely. Jaw problems, including TMJ disorders, clenching, or grinding (bruxism), can trigger headaches due to muscle tension and joint irritation. These types of headaches often stem from the temporomandibular joint and surrounding muscles that refer pain into the head, neck, and face. Treating the underlying jaw issue with TMJ physical therapy can significantly reduce headache frequency.

What causes TMJ headaches?

TMJ headaches are typically caused by dysfunction or inflammation of the temporomandibular joint and its surrounding structures. Contributing factors may include jaw misalignment, teeth grinding, stress-related muscle tension, or poor posture. Physical therapy techniques, like manual therapy, postural correction, and Fascial Counterstrain, can help relieve the root causes of TMJ headaches naturally and effectively.

Can physical therapy really help headaches?

Yes! Many headaches are caused or worsened by muscle tension, joint restrictions, or postural issues. Physical therapy for headaches targets these root causes, helping to reduce frequency and intensity, without the need for medication.

Start Your Journey to Recovery

If you’re searching for a lasting, non-invasive solution, our TMJ physical therapy and headache treatments can help you feel like yourself again, without relying on medications or temporary fixes. Schedule your evaluation with one of our expert physical therapists today and start your journey toward lasting relief.

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