Many systems throughout the body are deeply interconnected. Chronic neck pain can be caused by issues in the jaw, for example. Even if two issues seem to be separate, they may have a hidden relation. This is why receiving a diagnosis from a health care professional can be vital for receiving proper care. Two conditions that can have a surprising link are TMJ disorder and tinnitus. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder affects the joints at the jaw. This can lead to varied symptoms. In some cases, TMJ complications can include vertigo. Tinnitus is a complex issue, usually being caused by a different condition. Do you have a ringing or buzzing sound in your ears that will not go away? This could be an indication of tinnitus. Tinnitus is often associated with hearing loss, but it can be caused by other conditions as well. To learn more about the link between TMJ disorder and tinnitus, it is important to understand each condition.
What is TMJ disorder?
TMJ disorder refers to dysfunction in the joint connecting your jawbone to your skull. This joint allows you to chew, talk and yawn. When it functions incorrectly, it can lead to a range of symptoms. Discomfort in the jaw is one of the most common signs of TMJ disorder. TMJ disorder can cause acute jaw pain, tenderness, and a popping sound when you open or close your mouth. Many other issues, such as difficulty chewing, can arise as well. When you experience TMJ disorder, it is vital that you get the help you need. In addition to professional treatments like physical therapy, self-care can be effective for alleviating symptoms.
What is tinnitus?
If you experience tinnitus, you are not alone. Tinnitus is a widespread condition. According to the American Tinnitus Association, approximately 10% of Americans experience tinnitus. Tinnitus is most often described as a buzzing or ringing in the ears. People with tinnitus tend to hear these persistent noises most in the absence of external noises. Tinnitus does not always go away. Tinnitus can sometimes be a symptom of permanent hearing damage. However, it can typically be addressed if it is caused by another treatable condition.
TMJ disorder and tinnitus: How are they connected?
TMJ disorder and tinnitus can be related conditions. In situations where someone experiences both, their tinnitus may be a symptom of the TMJ disorder. The eardrum is near the jawbone. When the jaw joint is misaligned, it can put pressure on surrounding structures. This added pressure can irritate the area around the ear, leading to a ringing sensation in the ear. It is important to note that these conditions can also occur separately. Some people experience TMJ disorder without tinnitus and vice versa. However, for individuals with both conditions, addressing the TMJ disorder can often also provide tinnitus relief.
Treating tinnitus and TMJ disorder with physical therapy
- Jaw exercises — Jaw exercises can be a good way to address TMJ disorder. By improving mobility around the jaw joint, you can reduce tension in the area. This can in turn reduce inflammation and discomfort. As the other TMJ symptoms are addressed, you may notice a reduction in your tinnitus as well. It can sometimes be difficult to gauge your tinnitus improvement. Paying attention to tinnitus volume and duration can help you determine if these decrease over time. As your tinnitus improves, you may also notice improvements in sleep and mood.
- Body mechanics — Poor posture can contribute to TMJ disorder. With guidance from a physical therapy specialist, you can optimize your posture. Physical therapy for TMJ disorder recovery can happen through both in-person sessions and quality at-home care. By maintaining good biomechanical balance, you can minimize strain on the jaw joint and surrounding structures.
- Manual therapy — Manual therapy refers to hands-on techniques employed by physical therapy specialists. These techniques are designed to mobilize tissue to promote healing. With TMJ disorder, manual therapy can be effective for reducing tension around the jaw. Manual therapy can also relax tissue around the auditory system. Thus manual therapy can work to alleviate symptoms of TMJ disorder and tinnitus at the same time.
Alliance PTP is ready to help you find top-notch PT for TMJ disorder and tinnitus
At Alliance Physical Therapy Partners, we’re proudly bringing together physical therapy practices across the country to help people get the high-quality PT they need.
Want to see a physical therapist in person? We can put you in touch with an Alliance PTP partner that’s close to you and that can help you address TMJ disorder and tinnitus.
Not keen on in-person PT sessions or not close to an Alliance PTP partner? No worries. We also offer effective and affordable virtual physical therapy through our Agile Virtual Physical Therapy platform.
Come find help for your injury or chronic condition today!
Get Help at a Location Near You