TMJ & jaw physiotherapy · Northcliff
TMJ physiotherapy in Northcliff, Johannesburg
A jaw that clicks or catches, aches after a long day, or makes chewing and yawning uncomfortable can wear you down. TMJ physiotherapy looks at how your temporomandibular joint, neck and posture work together, and helps you use your jaw more comfortably again.
Understanding the problem
What is temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge joint just in front of each ear that connects your lower jaw to your skull. You use it every time you talk, chew, swallow or yawn.
"TMJ dysfunction" is a broad term for problems with the jaw joint and the muscles that move it. Symptoms can come from the joint itself, the surrounding muscles, or both, and they often have more than one contributing factor. That's why a proper assessment comes before any treatment.
The bigger picture
The jaw and neck connection
The jaw and the neck are closely linked. Neck stiffness, a forward head posture, and habits like clenching or grinding can all play a part in how the jaw feels.
Mandy Gossip has a special interest in both the cervical spine (neck) and TMJ dysfunction, so your assessment looks at the whole area rather than the jaw on its own.
The approach
How physiotherapy can help
TMJ physiotherapy is usually gentle and practical. After assessing how your jaw and neck move, treatment may include:
- Jaw exercises to improve control and comfortable movement
- Hands-on techniques, such as joint mobilisation and myofascial release, for the jaw and neck
- Advice on habits that load the jaw, such as clenching, posture and chewing
- Dry needling of tight muscles, where it suits you
The aim is to ease your symptoms and give you strategies you can use at home, so you feel more in control of your jaw day to day.
After surgery
Physiotherapy after TMJ surgery
Mandy has a special interest in the post-operative care of TMJ patients. After temporomandibular joint surgery, physiotherapy typically focuses on gradually and safely restoring movement, always following your surgeon's guidance on what is appropriate and when.
What to expect
Your care at Northcliff Physiotherapy
Every session is one-on-one in a quiet, home-based practice. Your first visit starts with a careful assessment of your jaw, neck and posture, and a plan tailored to you.
Your physiotherapist
Mandy (Amanda) Gossip
- Special interest in the neck, TMJ dysfunction and post-op care
- BSc (Physiotherapy), UCT, 1995
- 25+ years' experience, in Johannesburg since 2000
- Practice no. 7231970
Questions people ask
Frequently asked questions
What is TMJ physiotherapy?
TMJ physiotherapy is assessment and treatment for problems with the temporomandibular joint (the jaw joint) and the muscles around it. It usually combines gentle exercises, hands-on techniques and advice, and often looks at the neck and posture too.
Can physiotherapy help a clicking jaw?
Physiotherapy is commonly used for jaw clicking, stiffness and discomfort, especially when muscles and movement patterns are involved. An assessment will help work out what is contributing in your case and whether physiotherapy is suitable.
Do I need to see a dentist first?
No. You can book directly, without a referral. If your dentist, orthodontist or surgeon is already involved, physiotherapy can work alongside their care.
Is TMJ physiotherapy painful?
Treatment is gentle and adjusted to what feels manageable for you. Mandy will explain each step and check in with you throughout the session.
Do you accept medical aid?
Yes. Northcliff Physiotherapy submits claims to all medical aids. How much is covered depends on your medical aid plan.
Please note: if your jaw is locked and you can't open or close your mouth, or your symptoms started after a blow to the face, see a dentist or doctor promptly.
Ready when you are
Let's take a look at your jaw
If jaw pain, clicking or stiffness is getting in the way of eating, talking or sleeping well, a proper assessment is the best first step. Book a one-on-one TMJ physiotherapy appointment with Mandy at Northcliff Physiotherapy.
- Phone087 551 1779
- Emailmandy@ncphysio.co.za
- Address11 Columbia Drive, Northcliff, Randburg, 2115
- ParkingSecure off-street parking
