Temporomandibular
Disorders (TMD)
Do You Need Relief From Jaw Pain?
Are you experiencing jaw pain, clicking, or locking when eating or yawning? Does chewing feel uncomfortable, or do you regularly hear a popping sound when you open or close your mouth? You may be suffering from a temporomandibular disorder (TMD), a common but treatable condition that affects the jaw joint and surrounding muscles.
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At Cogent Physical Rehabilitation Center in Burlington, our physiotherapists specialize in treating TMJ dysfunction with evidence-based techniques designed to restore comfort, mobility, and function — without unnecessary medication or surgery.
What is Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)?
Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) describe problems involving the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), chewing muscles, and associated structures. TMD affects between 6%–12% of adults, with symptoms most common between ages 18–45, and women affected more often than men.
Symptoms of TMD Dysfunction
Symptoms may include:
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Jaw pain or tenderness
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Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
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Clicking, popping, or grinding in the jaw
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Locking of the jaw
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Headaches and facial pain
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Earache or pain around the ears
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Pain or discomfort while chewing
When To Seek Help
You should see a physiotherapist if:
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Jaw pain persists longer than 1–2 weeks.
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Clicking or popping noises interfere with daily eating or speaking.
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You experience frequent headaches or neck pain alongside jaw issues.
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The jaw feels stiff or difficult to open fully.
Seek urgent medical attention if:
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Your jaw becomes completely locked open or closed.
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Severe swelling or suspected fracture follows trauma to the jaw.
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Pain is accompanied by fever or signs of infection.
Why Choose Cogent Rehab Burlington?
While dentists and doctors often diagnose TMD, physiotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for long-term relief. Research shows that manual therapy and exercise-based physiotherapy provide better outcomes than splints or surgery for many patients.​
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TMJ physiotherapy delivered by experienced clinicians trained in jaw and neck dysfunction.
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Integration of multiple evidence-based techniques rather than relying on splints or surgery.
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A holistic approach linking jaw pain with headaches, neck pain, and posture.
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Convenient Burlington clinic offering personalized care tailored to your lifestyle.
Treatment Options for TMD
Our physiotherapists provide a comprehensive, non-invasive approach to jaw pain. Treatment options may include:
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Manual Therapy: Gentle joint mobilization and soft tissue techniques to restore normal jaw movement.
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Myofascial Release: To reduce tension in chewing muscles and relieve trigger points.
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Exercise Therapy: Jaw mobility and strengthening exercises for long-term stability.
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Acupuncture & Dry Needling: To reduce pain, improve circulation, and decrease muscle guarding.
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Biofeedback Training: To help reduce clenching, grinding, and stress-related muscle tension.
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Neck and Postural Training: Correcting posture to reduce jaw stress and secondary headaches.
FAQs About TMD
Q1. Can physiotherapy cure TMJ dysfunction?
Physiotherapy often provides long-term relief by restoring joint mobility, reducing muscle tension, and correcting contributing factors.
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Q2. Do I need a dentist referral for TMJ physiotherapy?
No referral is needed. Many patients are referred by dentists, but you can book directly with us.
Q3. Is jaw clicking always a sign of TMD?
Not always. Clicking without pain may not need treatment, but if it causes pain or locking, physiotherapy can help.
Q4. Will I need surgery for TMJ dysfunction?
In most cases, no. Conservative physiotherapy is highly effective, and surgery is rarely required.
Q5. Can stress make TMJ pain worse?
Yes. Stress often leads to clenching or grinding, which aggravates jaw pain. Physiotherapy and biofeedback can help manage this.