What are the Symptoms of TMJ?

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ/ TMD) can significantly impact a person's quality of life. Characterized by pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement, TMJ/TMD can lead to a variety of symptoms which can range from annoying to distressing. In this blog post, we will explore the common symptoms that patients may experience when suffering from TMJ/TMD.

1. Jaw and facial Pain 

One of the primary symptoms of TMJ/TMD is persistent pain in the jaw. This discomfort may be localized to the area near the joint or can radiate to the surrounding muscles. Patients often describe the pain as dull and acheing, with sharp or intense episodes occurring after or during activities such as chewing or yawning.

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2. Headaches

Many people with TMJ/TMD experience frequent headaches that can range from mild to severe. These headaches often originate from muscle tension in the jaw and neck area. Tension-type headaches and migraines are commonly reported among TMJ/TMD sufferers, making it essential for Physiotherapists to address both the jaw joints, neck and the associated musculature.

Related Blog: https://www.myjawphysio.com.au/patient-resources/tmj-symptoms

3. Clicking or Popping Sounds

A distinctive sound is often heard when moving the jaw, which may include clicking, cluncking, popping, or grating noises. This symptom occurs when the disc inside the jaw joint doesn’t glide smoothly. Many people live their whole life with a bit of a clicky jaw and never develop any other symptoms. The click itself is only concerning when it is associated with pain or stiffness. My Jaw Physio can teach you ways to open your mouth which avoids the clicking sound. 

4. Limited Jaw Movement

Individuals with TMJ/ TMD may notice a restricted range of motion in the jaw. This limitation can make it difficult to open the mouth fully or chew properly. In severe cases, the jaw may even become locked in an open or closed position. If your jaw is locking open or closed it is quite important to seek a Physiotherapy, Oral Medicine Specialist or Surgeon’s opinion.

5. Ear Pain and Congestion

The Jaw joint and ear opening are right next to each other. This proximity sometimes results in TMJ /TMD causing ear-related symptoms. Patients can report ear pain, ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or a sensation of fullness in the ears.

Recognizing the symptoms of TMJ/ TMD is vital for seeking appropriate treatment and managing discomfort effectively. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s time to book in with a Jaw Physio.

At MyJawPhysio, we specialize in helping patients overcome TMJ related challenges. Don't hesitate to reach out for help today!

For more information on related issues, check out our blog on https://www.myjawphysio.com.au/patient-resources/everything-you-need-to-know-about-tmj-and-tmd