Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Therapy

If you suffer from jaw pain, clicking, popping, or difficulty chewing, you may have temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. TMJ disorder can cause persistent discomfort, headaches, and even neck or ear pain, making daily activities challenging. At Aspire Physical Therapy in Bend, OR, we offer specialized TMJ treatment to relieve pain, restore movement, and help you regain comfort—without medication or surgery.

What is TMJ Dysfunction?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull. It allows you to talk, chew, and yawn smoothly. However, when this joint becomes irritated, inflamed, or misaligned, it can lead to chronic pain, stiffness, and dysfunction.

Common Causes of TMJ Disorder

  • Teeth grinding (bruxism) – Overuse of jaw muscles can lead to pain and joint irritation

  • Jaw clenching – Often linked to stress, muscle tension, or posture imbalances

  • Trauma or injury – Accidents or direct impact to the jaw can disrupt normal function

  • Arthritis and joint disorders – Conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the jaw

  • Postural issues – Poor neck and shoulder posture can place extra strain on the TMJ

Symptoms of TMJ Dysfunctions

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, TMJ-focused physical therapy in Bend, OR can help:

  • Jaw pain or tenderness – Pain while chewing, speaking, or at rest

  • Clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw – Difficulty opening or closing the mouth fully

  • Headaches or ear pain – Often mistaken for migraines or ear infections

  • Facial, neck, or shoulder tension – TMJ dysfunction can cause widespread muscle tightness

  • Limited jaw mobility – Trouble moving the jaw smoothly without discomfort

Without proper treatment, TMJ dysfunction can worsen over time, making it essential to seek professional physical therapy for TMJ relief.

How Physical Therapy Can Help with TMJ Pain

At Aspire Physical Therapy, we provide a comprehensive, hands-on approach to treating TMJ dysfunction. Our goal is to not only reduce pain but also restore mobility and prevent recurring issues by addressing the root causes of jaw discomfort. TMJ dysfunction can lead to symptoms such as jaw pain, clicking or popping, headaches, ear discomfort, and difficulty chewing. Many cases are caused by factors like poor posture, muscle imbalances, jaw clenching, or stress-related tension. Through targeted physical therapy, we help patients find relief and restore proper jaw function.

Our TMJ Treatment Approach

Our TMJ treatment plans are customized for each patient and focus on reducing pain while improving movement and muscle coordination. Manual therapy and joint mobilization are key techniques we use to decrease stiffness, restore jaw alignment, and improve overall mobility. Soft tissue and myofascial release help relieve tension in the jaw, neck, and shoulders, addressing muscle tightness that may be contributing to discomfort.

Since posture plays a crucial role in TMJ dysfunction, we incorporate postural correction and ergonomic training to improve head and neck positioning, reducing strain on the jaw. Neuromuscular re-education helps retrain jaw and facial muscles to restore proper movement patterns, preventing reoccurring dysfunction. In addition, we provide patient education and home exercises to help patients maintain progress, prevent flare-ups, and adopt jaw-friendly habits for long-term relief.

At Aspire Physical Therapy, we take an evidence-based approach to TMJ treatment, ensuring that we address not just the symptoms but also the underlying causes. By combining manual techniques, posture correction, muscle retraining, and self-care strategies, we help our patients achieve lasting relief without the need for medication or surgery.

  • Dr. Bailey Kelley PT, DPT

    Physical Therapist — Bend Clinic

  • Dr. Brittany Estuesta PT, DPT

    Physical Therapist — Bend Clinic

  • Dr. Kelsea Hulstrom PT, DPT

    Physical Therapist — Bend Clinic

  • Dr. Laura Ahmed PT, DPT

    Physical Therapist — Bend Clinic

  • Dr. Samantha Noregaard PT, DPT

    Physical Therapist — Bend Clinic

  • Molly Sutherlin, PTA

    Physical Therapist Assistant — Bend Clinic

  • Dr. Alana Vernon PT, DPT

    Physical Therapist — Sisters Clinic

Find Relief from TMJ Pain Today

If jaw pain, clicking, or discomfort is affecting your daily life, it's time to take the next step. At Aspire Physical Therapy, we offer expert, hands-on treatment to help you regain comfort and function. Don’t wait—start your journey toward lasting relief now.