Understanding TMJ Pain
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) is a condition characterized by discomfort or pain in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. It commonly affects the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jawbone to the skull. The symptoms of TMJ can vary from person to person, but they often include jaw pain, difficulty in opening or closing the mouth, and clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw. The intensity of these symptoms may worsen during activities such as chewing, speaking, or yawning. Understanding the causes and seeking appropriate treatment is essential for managing TMJ effectively.
Our team at PhysioFit Physical Therapy & Wellness can help you get out of this vicious cycle and find effective relief. Call us to schedule an appointment with a physical therapist and get started on your personalized TMJ pain treatment plan.
Signs & Symptoms
TMJ Pain can present itself in many ways. If you are currently experiencing any of the following symptoms, physical therapy could be a great place to start.
Pain or tenderness of your jaw or face
Clicking, popping, or grating sound when opening or closing the mouth.
Decreased jaw opening or pain with opening
Difficulty chewing or pain while chewing
Locking of the joint, making it difficult to open or close your mouth
Locking of the jaw (closed or opened)
Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)
Fullness in the ear or hearing loss
Earache (usually in front of or below the ear)
Headache migraines triggered by clenching
Neck and shoulder pain triggered by clenching
Dull ache in the eye
Toothache
Dizziness
Breathing problems (mouth breather)
Sleep problems (apnea or insomnia)
Why PhysioFit Physical Therapy?
You will have a private 1-1 evaluation with a physical therapist. The evaluation includes your medical history, a movement analysis, and an assessment of your posture, muscles, and nerves.
EMOTIONS YOU MAY BE FEELING
- Stressed
- Debilitated
- Overwhelmed
- Despairing


TMJ PAIN TREATMENT
- Education on body awareness/ mechanics
- Stretches and strengthening exercises to balance muscles
- Manual treatment to balance muscles, and joints, and decompress nerves
- 1:1 sessions with your therapist
- Guidance on exercises and daily lifestyle changes
- Manual/hands-on therapy to increase mobility and reduce pain
Get your desired outcome
- Able to focus on work efficiently again
- Sleep normally/better
- Techniques to reduce stress to
- maintain a better quality of life
- Able to eat anything I want again
- Able to avoid missing work/school due to migraine symptoms

Move better. Live better.
PhysioFit Physical Therapy & Wellness, much like Los Altos itself, combines an inviting, community environment with exceptional talent. Founded and led by Kim Gladfelter, a keen, well-rounded expert of healing through movement and a dedicated team who takes a holistic approach to optimal health.
Let's Get Started!
What Our Clients Say
Physical Therapists at PhysioFit
Our TMJ and orthopedic physical therapists have helped thousands of patients all over Los Altos, CA.