Jaw
Physical therapy for jaw problems
Your jaw plays a crucial role in your daily life. It enables you to speak, eat, laugh and swallow. The jaw is one of the most frequently used joints in your body, and although it often seems obvious, overuse or injury can cause quite a few symptoms
What causes jaw pain?
Jaw pain can be caused by a variety of factors. They can be acute injuries, such as a blow to the jaw, as well as long-term strain from stress, for example.
Common causes are:
- Tension and stress: When you are stressed, you may unconsciously tighten your jaw muscles, which can lead to pain and even jaw problems such as teeth grinding or clenching.
- Poor alignment: Misalignment of the jaw, such as due to crooked teeth or a poor bite pattern, can lead to overloading of the jaw joint.
- Osteoarthritis: Like other joints in your body, the jaw joint can show wear and tear as you age, which can lead to pain and stiffness.
- Dental problems: Problems such as a tooth root infection, a poorly placed filling or a broken tooth can also cause pain in the jaw.
What do you notice about jaw pain?
Jaw pain can manifest itself in a variety of ways, from mild pain when chewing to severe discomfort that interferes with your daily activities.
Possible symptoms include:
- Pain when opening or closing the mouth
- A snapping or cracking sound in the jaw when moving
- Tension or pain in the jaw muscles
- Headache or pain radiating to the ear or neck
- Restrictions in mouth opening (e.g., difficulty eating certain foods)
How can we help?
Marten Elzinga orofacial physiotherapist
At VMfysio, we offer customized treatments to relieve jaw pain and improve the function of your jaw. Our treatments may include manual therapy, targeted exercises to relax the jaw muscles, and advice on posture and preventing overuse. We help you restore mobility to your jaw and reduce pain.
Contact VMfysio for an intake and find out how we can help you!
