The TMJ (temporomandibular joint) is the technical name for the joint where your jaw joins onto your skull.

TMJ dysfunction refers to any disorder affecting the jaw joint and surrounding muscles and nerves. It can be caused by jaw clenching or grinding, poor posture, trauma, dental issues, or stress.

This condition can lead to local pain and more widespread symptoms due to its connection with the facial nerve and other nearby structures.

Potential Symptoms

• Jaw pain, stiffness, or locking
• Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
• Headaches, especially around the temples and forehead
• Facial pain, tightness, numbness
• Ear pain or fullness
• Difficulty opening the mouth and eating
• Neck and shoulder tension and pain
• Blurred vision

If you are suffering with any of these symptoms and think your jaw may be the cause, please get in touch!

Dr Ghazaleh Vahedi specialises in treatment for the TMJ, using a tailored, hands-on approach which can dramatically improve both local and referred symptoms.

What people have said about TMJ Dysfunction Physiotherapy...

I began physio after developing severe TMJ pain with constant clicking and popping. I was not aware that physiotherapy could help with TMJ, but after getting a referral, I decided to give it a try. After several sessions, I have seen a massive improvement in my pain and reduction in the clicking in my jaw. Before starting treatment, I was really struggling to eat and had to go on a soft food diet but now I am back to eating normally again. Ghazaleh has been very supportive throughout the process, giving me the confidence to try the acupuncture treatment - something that I was initially apprehensive of as I do not like needles! Also teaching me different exercises that I can do to help ease the tension in my jaw. Thanks again Ghazaleh and Physiofit.

I went to see Ghazaleh for treatment for an ongoing TMJ issue. Before my visit, I had extreme headaches, a constantly aching jaw and clicking/popping when I opened my mouth. I felt a massive relief even after just one session after exercises and acupuncture, with the headaches hugely reduced and no more constant aching tightness in my jaw. Thank you so much!

I saw Ghazaleh after developing TMJ in one side of my jaw, as a result of which I was restricted in how much I could open my mouth. This made eating difficult as it felt as though the joint could dislocate. Any movement in the joint resulted in crunching sensation and discomfort. Ghazaleh is very knowledgeable and quickly worked out the areas of my body that needed attention. She put together a series of exercises for me to practice daily at home. At my appointments she massaged the joint and muscles affected alongside the use of acupuncture.. After 5 appointments I now have almost full movement of the joint which feels more stable, and no discomfort. I would like to say a big 'Thank you' to Ghazaleh for her skills which have helped me so much.