Jaw pain, clicking, headaches, or facial tension are often brushed off as stress-related or something that can only be managed with a night guard. While dental appliances can be helpful in some cases, many people are surprised to learn that TMJ dysfunction is frequently a movement and musculoskeletal issue—not just a dental one.
At Midland Sports Rehab and Active Orthopedics, we look beyond the jaw itself to uncover the true source of TMJ pain and provide long-term, sustainable relief.
TMJ Dysfunction rehab at Midland Sports Rehab and Active Orthopedics
What Is TMJ Dysfunction?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull and plays a vital role in speaking, chewing, yawning, and facial expression. When this joint or the surrounding muscles are not functioning properly, TMJ dysfunction can develop.
Common symptoms include:
- Jaw pain, stiffness, or clicking
- Headaches or migraines
- Neck and shoulder tightness
- Ear pain, pressure, or ringing
- Pain with chewing, yawning, or talking
- Facial tension or jaw locking
Left untreated, TMJ dysfunction can become chronic and begin affecting daily life.
Why TMJ Is a Whole-Body Issue
The jaw does not work in isolation. It is closely connected to the neck, upper back, shoulders, and posture. Poor alignment, forward head posture, prolonged desk work, athletic strain, or stress-related muscle tension can overload the jaw and disrupt normal movement patterns.
When these contributing factors are not addressed, symptoms often persist—even if the jaw itself is treated.
That’s why effective TMJ care requires a whole-body approach.
How Midland Sports Rehab and Active Orthopedics Can Help
At Midland Sports Rehab and Active Orthopedics, TMJ treatment focuses on restoring normal movement, reducing tension, and improving overall biomechanics. Our physical therapists use a hands-on, individualized approach designed to address the root cause of symptoms.
TMJ treatment may include:
- Manual therapy for the jaw, neck, and upper spine
- Soft tissue techniques to reduce muscle tension in the face, neck, and shoulders
- Postural assessment and correction
- Therapeutic exercises to improve jaw stability and mobility
- Movement re-education and habit modification
- Education on ergonomics, breathing, and stress management
The goal is not just temporary relief, but long-term improvement in how the jaw and surrounding structures function together.
Supporting TMJ Recovery
Midland Sports Rehab and Active Orthopedics work together to provide comprehensive TMJ care by addressing both movement-related and structural contributors that affect jaw mechanics. Dysfunction or restrictions in the cervical spine and upper back can place added stress on the jaw and contribute to ongoing TMJ symptoms.
Chiropractic care focuses on restoring proper joint motion and alignment, particularly in the neck and upper spine, which play a critical role in jaw function. Chiropractic-focused treatment may help by:
- Improving joint mobility in the cervical and upper thoracic spine
- Reducing inflammation and muscle guarding
- Addressing postural imbalances that impact jaw alignment and mechanics
Physical therapy complements chiropractic care by improving muscular balance, movement control, and long-term stability. Through targeted exercises, manual therapy, and movement re-education, physical therapy helps reinforce proper mechanics and prevent symptoms from returning.
When chiropractic care is combined with physical therapy and movement-based treatment, patients often experience more complete, longer-lasting relief from TMJ-related pain and dysfunction.
TMJ Dysfunction rehab at Midland Sports Rehab and Active Orthopedics
Who Can Benefit From TMJ Treatment?
TMJ treatment may be beneficial for:
- Office workers and professionals with prolonged sitting or screen time
- Athletes experiencing neck or shoulder strain
- Individuals with frequent headaches or migraines
- People who grind or clench their teeth
- Patients who have not found relief through dental treatment alone
Find Relief From Jaw Pain
Jaw pain does not have to become your new normal. When TMJ dysfunction is treated as a whole-body condition, meaningful relief is possible.
If you are experiencing jaw pain, headaches, neck tension, or clicking in the jaw, schedule an evaluation with Midland Sports Rehab or Active Orthopedics. Our team will assess the root cause of your symptoms and create a personalized plan to help you move—and feel—better.
👉 Book your appointment today at Midland Sports Rehab or Active Orthopedics
📞 Call 989.341.1070 to schedule
📍 Midland Sports Rehab
4710 Eastman Avenue, Midland, MI 48640
📍Active Orthopedics
317 E Wackerly St, Midland, MI 48642