Physical Therapy for TMJ: Relief for Jaw and Ear Pain

Physical Therapy for TMJ: Relief for Jaw and Ear Pain Based on 627 Reviews rosanne calahan I love the Chesterton physical therapy facility. I have had TMJ pain since may of 2024 and have seen many medical practitioners for it. I only had 3 treatments at the Chesterton physical therapy by Dr. Maribel and already feel much better !! Fun place natalina Saw Maribel and had a great session! I came for TMJ relief, I did not realize my back was the culprit. Maribel gave me relief! natalina Saw Maribel and had a great session! I came for TMJ relief, I did not realize my back was the culprit. Maribel gave me relief! natalina Maribel was able to fit me in same day to her schedule for my locked jaw. During my visit she was very detailed in her questions to better help and determine the cause and how to help. She did not just focus on my jaw, she also help my upper and lower neck. Thankfully by the end of the visit I was able to open up my mouth more wide than when I initially came in. I look forward to continuing my therapy here with Maribel! Highly recommended her! Physical therapy for TMJ is essential for managing Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ), a condition that affects the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, leading to discomfort, pain, and limited movement. Many people who suffer from TMJ experience symptoms such as jaw pain, ear pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing. Fortunately, physical therapy for TMJ offers a non-invasive and effective way to manage and treat these symptoms. In this article, we will explore various physical therapy techniques, TMJ treatments, and tips for at-home care. What is TMJ Dysfunction? TMJ, or Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, refers to the dysfunction of the joint connecting your jaw to your skull. This joint is responsible for basic functions like chewing, talking, and opening your mouth. When the TMJ is not functioning properly, it can cause discomfort, pain, and limitations in movement. Common causes of TMJ dysfunction include stress, teeth grinding (bruxism), arthritis, trauma to the jaw, or misalignment of the teeth. If left untreated, TMJ disorder can worsen over time, leading to chronic pain and discomfort in the jaw, face, and even neck. This is where physical therapy for TMJ comes in to help alleviate the symptoms and restore normal function. How Physical Therapy Can Help TMJ Physical therapy is an excellent non-invasive treatment option for managing TMJ symptoms. Through a combination of exercises, manual therapy, and patient education, physical therapists can help relieve pain and improve the function of the temporomandibular joint. TMJ physical therapy aims to reduce pain, restore mobility, and prevent future flare-ups. The specific benefits of physical therapy for TMJ include: Pain relief: Reducing pain in the jaw, face, and ear. Improved jaw mobility: Restoring the ability to open and close the mouth without discomfort. Muscle relaxation: Targeting tension in the muscles around the TMJ. Posture improvement: Correcting postural issues that may contribute to TMJ dysfunction. How Physical Therapy Can Help TMJ Before diving into treatment options, it’s essential to recognize the symptoms of TMJ dysfunction. Common symptoms include: Jaw pain: This can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, often worsening when chewing or speaking. Ear pain: TMJ dysfunction can lead to ear pain or a feeling of fullness in the ears. Headaches: TMJ-related tension can trigger frequent headaches. Jaw clicking or popping: Some individuals experience clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing their mouths. Lockjaw: In severe cases, the jaw may temporarily lock, making it difficult to open or close the mouth. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to seek professional care. At Chesterton Physical Therapy, we provide effective solutions by combining physical therapy with other treatments to help manage and reduce your symptoms. Request Appointment Effective Physical Therapy Techniques for TMJ TMJ physical therapy techniques target the muscles and joints responsible for the dysfunction. These techniques can include: Manual Therapy: Hands-on manipulation of the muscles and joints to improve mobility and reduce stiffness. This can also involve soft tissue massage to relieve muscle tension. Jaw Exercises: Gentle exercises designed to strengthen the muscles around the TMJ and improve movement. Some common exercises include: Resisted mouth opening: Place your thumb under your chin and slowly open your mouth, using slight resistance with your thumb. Chin tucks: This exercise helps improve posture, which can reduce stress on the jaw joint. Gently pull your chin back towards your neck while keeping your head level. Posture Correction: Poor posture, especially forward head posture, can strain the TMJ. Physical therapists help correct posture to reduce pressure on the jaw joint. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: These exercises target the neck, shoulders, and upper back to relieve tension that may be affecting the jaw. By targeting the muscles and joints associated with TMJ dysfunction, physical therapy techniques provide effective, long-lasting relief for those suffering from TMJ. TMJ PT Treatment: What to Expect in Chesterton PT When you come to Chesterton Physical Therapy for TMJ treatment, our physical therapists will perform a detailed evaluation of your symptoms, posture, and jaw function. This evaluation enables us to create a customized treatment plan that addresses your unique requirements. Initial Consultation: During your first visit, the therapist will assess your jaw movement, muscle tightness, and overall posture. Customized Treatment Plan: Based on your evaluation, the therapist will design a program that includes manual therapy, exercises, and lifestyle modifications to improve your condition. Progress Monitoring: Over time, our therapist will track your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed to ensure you’re achieving the best possible results. How to Relieve Jaw and Ear Pain at Home In addition to professional TMJ PT treatment, there are several ways to relieve jaw and ear pain at home. Here are some TMJ home treatment tips: Apply Ice or Heat: Ice packs can help reduce swelling, while heat packs can relax tight muscles. Apply for 15-20 minutes as needed. Gentle
Sports Injury Rehabilitation: From Common Injuries to Effective Therapies

Sports Injury Rehabilitation: From Common Injuries to Effective Therapies Based on 627 Reviews Victoria Deleon My assesment for my injured shoulder and my poor balance really identified the kind of therapy I need to improve my functionThe staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. Maribel has a comprehensive plan for me. I look forward to being able to be more active and enjoying the activities I like to enjoy! Highly recommended! Sasha VanTil Maribel really helped with my foot and ankle pain. They do not feel as swollen and I am excited to continue working with her. Alex Powell I came in for shoulder tightness I’ve had for a long time. No matter what I did, I couldn’t make it go away so I decided to give this place a try. I had Dr Maribel Bacalan for my physical therapy appointment and she did a great job working toward making it feel better. I wish I would’ve thought to come here sooner. J. C. I was very well taken care of here. I got excellent treatment and care, and the entire staff is so helpful with explaining what I need to do. I feel less pain and greater range of motion already.I highly recommend this facility. Sports injury rehabilitation is an essential part of an athlete’s recovery journey, whether they are a professional competitor or someone who enjoys sports as a hobby. The process not only helps heal injuries but also plays a crucial role in preventing future injuries and optimising performance. This article will help you understand sports injury rehabilitation’s intricacies, covering everything from common injuries to effective therapy options and the importance of personalized care. By understanding the rehabilitation process, athletes can ensure a faster, more effective recovery and return to their sport with confidence. Understanding Sports Injury Rehabilitation What is Sports Injury Rehabilitation? Sports injury rehabilitation refers to the process of restoring function and strength to an injured area of the body, enabling athletes to return to their sport. Rehabilitation is a tailored approach, often involving a combination of physical therapy, exercises, and sometimes psychological support, to help athletes overcome both the physical and mental challenges posed by injuries. The primary goals of sports injury rehabilitation are to reduce pain, restore mobility, improve strength, and ensure the injury does not recur. This process involves various stages, starting from the acute management of the injury, moving through recovery phases, and finally, returning to sport-specific training. Each rehabilitation stage is crucial, as rushing the process can lead to re-injury or prolonged recovery times. The Importance of Rehabilitation Rehabilitation is critical because it ensures that the injured tissue heals properly, regains its full function and that the athlete returns to their sport safely. Without proper rehabilitation, there is a higher risk of re-injury or developing compensatory injuries due to imbalances or weaknesses in other areas of the body. Additionally, this helps athletes mentally cope with the injury. Being sidelined can be frustrating and stressful, and the psychological support provided during rehabilitation is just as important as the physical aspects. A well-structured rehabilitation program can help athletes maintain a positive outlook and stay motivated throughout their recovery. The Most Common Sports Injuries While injuries can occur in any sport, certain sports have higher injury rates due to the nature of the activities involved. Contact sports like football, rugby, and hockey are notorious for high injury rates, given the physical collisions that are a regular part of these games. Basketball and soccer also see frequent injuries, particularly to the knees and ankles, due to the intense running, jumping, and quick changes in direction that these sports require. Non-contact sports, such as tennis and gymnastics, also have their share of injuries, often related to overuse or repetitive strain. For instance, tennis players are prone to elbow and shoulder injuries due to the repetitive motion of serving and hitting. Gymnasts often experience injuries to the wrists, ankles, and lower back due to the high-impact landings and the demands placed on their bodies during routines. Request Appointment Worst Sports Injuries Some sports injuries are more severe than others and can be career-threatening or even life-altering. These injuries often necessitate significant rehabilitation and, in some cases, surgical intervention. Examples of the worst sports injuries include: Torn ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament): Common in sports like football, basketball, and soccer, a torn ACL can sideline an athlete for several months and requires a rigorous rehabilitation process post-surgery. Achilles Tendon Rupture: This injury is common in sports that involve a lot of jumping or sudden changes in direction, such as basketball and tennis. Recovery can take up to a year, with a high risk of re-injury if not properly rehabilitated. Spinal Cord Injuries: Though rare, spinal cord injuries can occur in high-impact sports such as rugby or gymnastics. These injuries can lead to paralysis and require long-term rehabilitation and care. Concussions: Common in contact sports like football and hockey, concussions are traumatic brain injuries that can have long-term effects on an athlete’s cognitive and physical abilities. Rehabilitation involves not just physical rest but also cognitive therapy to ensure full recovery. Testicular Injuries in Women’s Sports While less common, testicular injuries in women’s sports are a concern in sports where there is a risk of blunt force trauma to the pelvic area, such as martial arts, soccer, and field hockey. Though women do not have testicles, they are susceptible to injuries in the groyne area, which can be just as painful and debilitating. For female athletes, these injuries can include bruising, hematomas, or even damage to the internal structures of the reproductive organs. Rehabilitation for such injuries typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), followed by gentle stretching and strengthening exercises to restore mobility and function. Effective Therapy for Sports Injuries Physical Therapy Physical therapy serves as the foundation of recovery from sports injuries. It involves a range of treatments designed to reduce pain, improve mobility, and strengthen the affected area. Our physical therapists at Chesterton Physical Therapy will
Reclaim Your Game: Expert Strategies for Sports Injury Treatment

Reclaim Your Game: Expert Strategies for Sports Injury Treatment Based on 627 Reviews Victoria Deleon My assesment for my injured shoulder and my poor balance really identified the kind of therapy I need to improve my functionThe staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. Maribel has a comprehensive plan for me. I look forward to being able to be more active and enjoying the activities I like to enjoy! Highly recommended! Sasha VanTil Maribel really helped with my foot and ankle pain. They do not feel as swollen and I am excited to continue working with her. Alex Powell I came in for shoulder tightness I’ve had for a long time. No matter what I did, I couldn’t make it go away so I decided to give this place a try. I had Dr Maribel Bacalan for my physical therapy appointment and she did a great job working toward making it feel better. I wish I would’ve thought to come here sooner. J. C. I was very well taken care of here. I got excellent treatment and care, and the entire staff is so helpful with explaining what I need to do. I feel less pain and greater range of motion already.I highly recommend this facility. Introduction In the United States, sports injuries have become a common challenge, with over 8.6 million occurrences annually, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This underscores the vital role of physical therapy in aiding an athlete’s recovery, a crucial step to ensure their return to peak performance. Understanding Sports Injuries: Common sports injuries include ankle sprains, hamstring strains, and knee injuries like ACL tears. These injuries not only impact the athletes’ immediate performance but can also have long-term effects on their careers, especially if not addressed promptly and effectively. Physical Therapy’s Role in Recovery Physical therapy is tailored to meet the specific needs of athletes, focusing on pain management, functional restoration, and prevention of future injuries. It’s a comprehensive approach, ensuring athletes not only recover but also regain their full potential. Advanced Physical Therapy Techniques Physical therapists employ various advanced techniques. Manual therapy, increasingly popular among people, involves hands-on techniques to reduce pain and enhance mobility. Dry needling, gaining traction in sports therapy circles, targets deeper tissues to stimulate healing. Aquatic therapy, a low-impact option, is particularly effective for early-stage rehabilitation. Moreover, sport-specific exercises are designed to meet the unique demands of each athletic discipline. Success Stories: Athletes’ Recovery Journeys 👍 Testimonials or real stories of our patients Injury Prevention Strategies in Sports Athletes are advised to follow tailored injury prevention strategies. These include regular strength training, flexibility exercises, and using proper equipment, all crucial in reducing the risk of sports injuries. Mental Health and Recovery in Sports Addressing the psychological aspect of recovery is vital, especially in the competitive environment of sports. Mental resilience, stress management, and psychological support are integral parts of the recovery process. Nutrition and Recovery: Diet plays a vital role in the recovery process. Athletes are advised to follow a balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, which are essential for repairing tissues and reducing inflammation. How Chesterton Physical Therapy Can Aid Athletes in Sports Injury Recovery Chesterton Physical Therapy’s Role in Athlete Recovery Chesterton Physical Therapy, with its state-of-the-art facilities and a team of experienced therapists, stands as a beacon of hope for athletes grappling with sports injuries.. Customized Recovery Programs: Understanding that each athlete’s injury and recovery needs are unique, Chesterton Physical Therapy prides itself on offering personalized rehabilitation programs. These programs are designed after thorough assessments and are aligned with the specific requirements of the athlete’s sport, ensuring a focused and efficient recovery path. Advanced Techniques: Our commitment to incorporating advanced techniques into our practice sets us apart. This includes a blend of traditional methods like manual therapy and modern approaches such as dry needling, deep tissue laser therapy, and sport-specific rehabilitation exercises, providing a comprehensive and unique recovery plan for every athlete. Success Stories: Athletes’ Recovery Journeys with Chesterton Physical Therapy Our Focus on Preventative Care and Education: Beyond rehabilitation, we emphasize the importance of injury prevention and athlete education. Our programs include guidance on proper training techniques, body mechanics, and lifestyle adjustments to minimize the risk of future injuries. We Don’t Want You to Sit Out of the Game; we’ll Help You Get Back In! Our message at Chesterton Physical Therapy is clear and heartfelt: “We don’t want you to sit out of the game, we’ll help you to get back in.” Understanding the frustration and eagerness that comes with sports injuries, our dedicated team is committed to not just healing your injuries but reigniting your spirit for the game. With us, you’re not just recovering; you’re preparing for a triumphant return to the sport you love. So, lace up your shoes, and let’s get you back in the game, stronger and more determined than ever! FAQs About Sports Injury Recovery 1. What are the most common sports injuries in the USA? Ankle sprains, hamstring strains, and knee injuries are among the most prevalent. 2. How does physical therapy help in the recovery of sports injuries? It aids in pain management, restores function, and prevents further injuries. It also help you with a tailored plan to recover your injury fast. 3. What are some advanced physical therapy techniques? Techniques include manual therapy, dry needling, and sport-specific rehabilitation exercises. 4. How important is nutrition in the recovery process? Nutrition is crucial as it provides the necessary nutrients for tissue repair and reducing inflammation. 5. How long does it typically take to recover from a sports injury with physical therapy? The recovery time varies depending on the injury’s severity and the athlete’s adherence to the therapy program. 6. Can physical therapy prevent future sports injuries? Yes, physical therapy can help prevent and reduce future injuries by strengthening muscles and improving flexibility and balance. . Conclusion In conclusion, the journey to recovery for athletes facing sports injuries is a multifaceted process. Advanced physical
5 Powerful Benefits of Daily Stretching | Chesterton Physical Therapy

Are You Stretching Frequently? If Not, Here’s 5 Reasons Why You Should! Based on 627 Reviews Asha Koshy Great service from start to finish! I really appreciate Dr. Maribel and Sara my PTA and all of the front desk staff. They really make you feel like part of the family. They are knowledgeable and have a good team. Missy Costello Just started coming here last week and I already feel comfortable with the staff. Maribel, Wes and the rest of the crew are all welcoming and informative. I already starting to feel some relief from my back pain which makes me feel positive I’ll be off of light duty at work sooner than planned. Michelle Ward After weeks of dealing with vertigo my doctor sent me here. I learned a lot at the first appointment and after one week the vertigo was gone! They were very helpful and informative. It also seems like a nice work environment, the employees always seem to be enjoying themselves. William P. Schurr Maribel and her staff are awesome. My daughter referred me while out of town and they took me in right away! Treatments have been great and my knee feels a lot better now. Improve Your Health and Wellness by Stretching! Have you ever noticed how good stretching feels after a nap, when you first wake up in the morning, or after vigorous physical activity? That good feeling just scratches the surface with the many healthy benefits you can get from regular stretching. Our innovative care strategies at Chesterton Physical Therapy will help you find quick relief. That’s why our physical therapist commonly recommends specific types of stretching exercises to complement other physical therapy modalities. Why stretching is a big part of PT Since stretching exercises offer so many important benefits, it’s not hard to see why we use them all the time in physical therapy. Physical therapy can combine targeted stretches with strength building exercises, massage therapy, ultrasound therapy, heat or cold therapy, and many other techniques to help you feel better and stay healthy. We can also make sure you are doing the right stretches for your needs and show you how to perform them safely. Below are five ways you can improve your health, comfort and function by simply stretching! 1. Stress relief Emotional stress can often turn into physical stress in the form of muscle tension, sleep problems, and suppressed immune function. In other words, it can make you sick! Stretching exercises can help to release the accumulated tension in your body while also calming your mind. Stretches that include mindfulness work (such as yoga) can prove especially helpful for easing the stress that might otherwise impair your health. 2. Chronic pain relief Speaking of pain relief, you may be surprised and delighted to discover how just well stretching can work as a chronic pain management tool. For instance, certain stretching exercises can undo the painful muscle knots associated with tension headaches or chronic pain syndromes such as fibromyalgia. Stretching is also recommended to help control arthritis pain and stiffness. Our physical therapist can determine which kinds of stretches will best suit your needs. 3. Increased blood flow Stretching doesn’t just relax your muscles; it also helps them receive the nourishment they need. That’s because when your muscles are tight and stiff, blood doesn’t flow through them as easily – and blood contains the oxygen and other nutrients necessary for optimal tissue health and performance. Stretching to ease that muscle tension gives your circulation a welcome boost. The same effect also helps your tissues rid themselves of unwanted, pain-causing substances such as lactic acid. 4. Injury prevention Athletic events, physical training, or demanding labor can leave you with a painful strain or sprain, especially if those tissues were “cold” when they were subjected to their burdens. Gentle, careful stretching before a challenging activity can reduce your risk of acute injury. Stretching immediately after your activity will also remove any muscle tension that may have accumulated during your strenuous activity. 5. Increased flexibility Are you frustrated because you don’t seem to have the same range of motion that you once did? A variety of musculoskeletal challenges can reduce your flexibility, creating stiffness and making certain motions uncomfortable or even impossible. Stretching can gently coax the stiffness out of tight tissues. Depending on the cause and location of your stiffness, our physical therapist may prescribe exercises such as hamstring thigh hip, chest, shoulder, upper back, or bicep/tricep stretches to loosen you up and improve your mobility. So, what else should I know about stretching? It is also quite common for a physical therapist to prescribe various stretching exercises for individuals suffering from chronic pain conditions. Stretching is of particular importance when you become less mobile due to issues such as osteoarthritis. The less you move your joints, the more likely your muscles and connective tissues will be to lose some of their length. This change clearly limits your joint motion even further and leaves you in even more pain. Stretching naturally supports PT recommendations such as walking, heat therapy, or massage therapy, in order to increase blood flow to painful joints and widen your pain-free range of motion. Chronic pain syndromes often involve muscle tightness. Syndromes such as fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome can cause muscle knots that limit muscle movement, resulting in pain to other parts of the body. Regular stretching can help you untie those painful knots. Get started today! Are you ready to stretch your way to a happier, healthier lifestyle? Please contact our PT center today to learn more and schedule an appointment. We don’t stretch the truth when we say we can help! Sources: https://www.thehealthy.com/mental-health/stress/stretching-exercises-for-stress-relief/ https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/exercise/how-to/stretching-benefits.php https://www.webmd.com/fibromyalgia/ss/slideshow-fibromyalgia-friendly-exercises https://www.verywellfit.com/does-stretching-matter-3119195 https://www.painscience.com/articles/stiffness-and-rom.php http://guidetoptpractice.apta.org/content/1/SEC40.extract https://www.coachup.com/nation/articles/the-10-best-stretches-for-total-body-flexibility https://www.healthline.com/health/benefits-of-stretching#benefits 5 Ways Stretching Can Improve Your Overall Health