Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) Is a condition that limits the function of the jaw, such as opening the mouth, chewing, talking, and yawning. TMD is a disorder of the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jaw to the skull and guides the jaw’s movement. Physical therapy can help a patient with TMD ease pain, regain normal jaw movement, and lessen daily stress on the jaw.

Physical therapy is an effective conservative treatment for TMD. The physical therapist assesses jaw and neck movement and range of motion as well as joint mobility, posture, and surrounding muscles and soft tissues that could be contributing to TMD. Physical therapy treatment can include manual therapy, posture education, dry needling, and low-loading exercises that strengthen the jaw without exerting too much pressure on the TMJ.