Understanding Jaw Locking: Causes and Effective Physical Therapy Solutions
Understanding Jaw Locking: Causes and Effective Physical Therapy Solutions
By Dr. Daniel Ballou, PT, DPT, OCS, COMT – TMJ Specialist in Glen Allen, VA
Jaw locking can be painful, frustrating, and disruptive — whether your jaw gets stuck in an open or closed position, or simply feels tight and restricted. Many people live with this issue for months (or even years), not realizing that physical therapy offers a safe, effective, and often overlooked solution.
In this post, we’ll explore the common causes of jaw locking and why physical therapy is one of the most research-supported treatments available — yet still underutilized by patients and even many dental professionals.
What Causes Jaw Locking?
Jaw locking can happen for a number of reasons, often involving a combination of muscle imbalance, joint irritation, or structural misalignment. Common causes include:
1. Muscle Spasms and Tension
Chronic clenching, grinding (bruxism), or stress can cause the muscles around the jaw to spasm, leading to limited or painful movement.
2. Disc Displacement
The disc inside the TMJ can shift forward or become stuck, making it difficult to open or close the jaw smoothly. This is often accompanied by clicking, popping, or deviation during movement.
3. Inflammation or Joint Irritation
Arthritis, past trauma, or overuse can lead to inflammation in the joint, making movement painful or restricted.
4. Postural and Cervical Spine Issues
Neck positioning, forward head posture, and tension in the upper spine often contribute to TMJ symptoms and jaw mechanics.
Physical Therapy: A Proven, First-Line Treatment for Jaw Locking
Despite how common TMJ dysfunction is, very few people are referred to physical therapy — even though it’s one of the most effective and conservative options available. In fact, studies consistently show that physical therapy helps reduce pain, restore range of motion, and decrease joint noise (like clicking or popping) in TMJ patients.
We take a comprehensive, hands-on approach that’s tailored to each patient’s unique pattern of movement and symptoms.
What PT Can Do for Jaw Locking
Our treatments may include:
Manual therapy to release tension in jaw and neck muscles
TMJ joint mobilization for improved disc and joint mobility
Neuromuscular re-education to improve jaw tracking
Cervical spine treatment for posture and upper spine influence
Controlled exercises like protraction, lateral glides, and isometric holds
Clenching awareness and relaxation training
Education on safe range of motion and home techniques
We also offer Neubie direct current stimulation for select patients to improve neuromuscular control, reduce pain, and promote healing. This technology is used in combination with hands-on care and exercise-based treatment.
The best part?
Physical therapy is covered by most insurance plans, often without needing a referral.
Why PT Is Underused for TMJ Disorders
Unfortunately, many dentists and medical providers don’t realize that physical therapy can treat TMJ dysfunction. As a result, patients are often referred only to oral surgeons, given bite guards, or told to “wait it out.”
While those approaches may help in certain cases, they often fail to address the muscular, movement-based causes of jaw locking — which is exactly where physical therapy excels.
Other Providers Who May Help
We believe in a collaborative approach to care. Depending on your specific condition, you may also benefit from:
Dentists – for bite guards and splint therapy
Oral surgeons – for joint degeneration or complex cases
ENTs – if symptoms include ear pain, fullness, or dizziness
Mental health professionals – when stress and anxiety drive clenching or bruxism
Pain management physicians – in rare cases of chronic inflammation
We regularly communicate with local dental and medical providers to ensure your treatment is coordinated and effective.
Ready to Unlock Your Jaw — and Your Life?
If you’re tired of living with jaw locking, discomfort, or limited motion, there are proven, conservative options available — and we’re here to help.
Schedule an appointment today to get a personalized evaluation and treatment plan that works for your life and your goals.
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Disclaimer
This post is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider — ideally a physical therapist experienced in TMJ dysfunction — before beginning treatment. The views expressed here are my own and do not reflect those of my employer.