Bruxism, the habitual grinding or clenching of teeth, can lead to significant jaw pain due to the excessive strain it puts on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and surrounding muscles. The repetitive motion of grinding can cause inflammation, muscle tension, and even damage to the joint itself, resulting in discomfort and limited jaw movement. Additionally, chewy foods require prolonged and repetitive chewing motions, which can exacerbate the strain on the TMJ and muscles, especially for individuals already prone to bruxism. Over time, this combination of factors can contribute to chronic jaw pain and discomfort, highlighting the importance of managing bruxism and being mindful of dietary choices to alleviate jaw-related issues.
Physical therapy can be an effective treatment for alleviating jaw pain caused by conditions such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction or bruxism. Through targeted exercises and manual therapy techniques, physical therapists can address muscle tension, improve jaw mobility, and correct any postural issues contributing to the pain. Therapeutic exercises often focus on strengthening and stretching the muscles around the jaw, neck, and shoulders to promote proper alignment and reduce strain on the TMJ. Additionally, manual therapy techniques such as massage and joint mobilization can help release tight muscles and improve joint function. By customizing treatment plans to address the underlying causes of jaw pain, physical therapy offers a holistic approach to restoring comfort and functionality to the jaw region.
If you suffer from jaw pain, physical therapy is a great first course of action to address these issues that is often more affordable than some other treatment options. Call Respire Physical Therapy at 703-671-1871 or click here to schedule an initial evaluation to begin resolving your symptoms and obtain exercises and strategies to work towards managing your symptoms independently! 
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