Physical therapists can use multiple approaches to help manage TMJ disorders. According to the 2020 NAM Report, “Some elements of physical therapy—including exercise and manual therapy—have been shown to improve pain and functional outcomes for individuals with TMDs. However, many of the studies are of low quality and further research is needed to support the use of these treatment modalities.” (NAM page 5-17)
Exercise. Exercise is considered a first-line treatment in the physical therapy management of TMJ disorders. Several types of exercise that may be effective include:
- Jaw strengthening exercises: exercises to build jaw strength and endurance
- Jaw stretching exercises: exercise aimed at stretching the soft tissue around the jaw muscles increases jaw opening
- Postural exercises: exercises that improve posture
Manual therapy. To increase motion by stretching the soft tissues and muscles surrounding a joint.
Other Physical Therapy Interventions
In addition to exercise and manual therapy, there are a number of other physical therapy treatments for TMJ disorders that are used clinically, but which lack clinical evidence or have varying degrees of evidence. These include the use of
- heat and cold therapy
- low-level laser therapy
- dry needling