About ActiveCare Physical Therapy®
The Best Physical Therapists in NYC
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Our therapists are licensed in New York State and active members in the American Physical Therapy Association. We have advanced training in joint mobilization and myofascial release techniques.
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We are dedicated practitioners with a passion for the profession and a comprehensive, holistic approach to treatment and healing. We treat each patient as an individual and treat the whole person, with a plan of care designed to meet the patient’s set goals for health, functionality and a return to work, tasks and activities. We network with a team of physicians, chiropractors, acupuncturists and massage therapists in order to provide guidance to other modalities that may be effective in the patients’ care. We also offer superior Telehealth services for physical therapy.
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Physical Therapist and owner Dr. Karena Wu PT, DPT, OCS is a graduate of the Program in Physical Therapy at Columbia University and is affiliated with several healthcare organizations in New York City. She is certified as a Strength and Conditioning Specialist, Kinesio Taping Practitioner and Pilates Instructor, and uses SpiderTech Taping. She is also a Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist, Strength and Conditioning Specialist, Graston Technique Specialist and Pilates Instructor. She holds LSVT BIG, FMS and SFMA Level 1 certifications as well. Dr. Wu also specializes in vertigo and temporomandibular joint disorders.
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ActiveCare is primarily an out-of-network facility. We accept all insurance with out-of-network benefits and file for most major insurance plans. We work with all prospective patients to create workable payment plans regardless of insurance coverage.
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ActiveCare accepts Medicare, No-Fault and Workers’ Compensation patients depending on schedule availability.
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ActiveCare’s administrators provide seamless and efficient concierge-style client service to all of our patients. And the whole ActiveCare team makes sure your time with us is a beneficial, productive and enjoyable experience.
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Category Archives: Temporomandibular Joint Pain
Understanding Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders and Physical Therapy Solutions
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can be painful, frustrating, and disruptive to daily life. Affecting the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, TMJ disorders may cause jaw pain, headaches, clicking or popping sounds, and difficulty chewing or speaking. Fortunately, physical therapy offers non-invasive, effective solutions for managing and treating TMJ dysfunction. In this post, we’ll break down what TMJ disorders are, their causes and symptoms, and how physical therapy can help restore comfort and function.
What is a TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joints connect your jawbone to your skull on both sides of the face, just in front of the ears. These joints play a critical role in everyday activities like speaking, chewing, and yawning. TMJ disorders, often referred to as TMD, occur when there’s dysfunction in the joint or surrounding muscles, leading to pain, limited motion, or joint sounds.
Common Causes of TMJ Disorders
TMJ disorders may develop from a variety of factors, including:
- Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism): Places excessive pressure on the joint and surrounding muscles.
- Poor posture: Especially forward head posture, which can affect jaw alignment and tension in the neck and shoulders.
- Trauma or injury: Direct impact to the jaw or head can result in joint damage.
- Arthritis: Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ.
- Stress: Emotional stress can lead to jaw clenching and increased muscle tension.
Symptoms of TMJ Dysfunction
TMJ disorders can present a range of symptoms that vary in intensity and duration. Common signs include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds during jaw movement
- Limited jaw movement or locking
- Facial pain or soreness
- Earaches or a sensation of fullness in the ears
- Headaches, often around the temples
- Neck and shoulder tension or stiffness
How Physical Therapy Helps TMJ Disorders
Physical therapy is a safe, non-invasive, and effective approach to treating TMJ disorders. A licensed physical therapist will perform a thorough evaluation to assess jaw mobility, posture, muscle tension, and any contributing factors. Based on the findings, they’ll develop a customized treatment plan that may include:
1. Manual Therapy
Hands-on techniques, such as soft tissue massage and joint mobilizations, help reduce muscle tightness, improve joint mechanics, and relieve pain around the jaw, neck, and shoulders.
2. Postural Correction
Since poor posture can contribute to TMJ symptoms, therapists work on improving head, neck, and shoulder alignment through targeted strengthening and posture education.
3. Therapeutic Exercises
Exercises are prescribed to increase jaw mobility, strengthen weak muscles, and reduce compensatory movement patterns. These may include controlled jaw opening, chin tucks, and resisted jaw movements.
4. Relaxation Techniques
Stress is a known trigger for TMJ symptoms. Therapists often incorporate diaphragmatic breathing, muscle relaxation, and mindfulness strategies to reduce tension and prevent clenching.
5. Education and Self-Management
A crucial component of physical therapy is teaching patients how to manage their symptoms at home. This includes guidance on posture, sleeping positions, avoiding harmful habits (like gum chewing), and applying heat or ice as needed.
Who Can Benefit from Physical Therapy for TMJ?
Physical therapy is suitable for most people experiencing TMJ-related symptoms, whether due to muscle tension, joint misalignment, or referred neck pain. It is especially helpful for those who:
- Have chronic jaw or facial pain
- Experience clicking or locking in the jaw
- Suffer from frequent headaches or ear pain without infection
- Clench or grind their teeth
- Want to avoid or delay surgical intervention
Understanding Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders and Physical Therapy Solutions: Conclusion
TMJ disorders can interfere with daily activities and quality of life, but physical therapy offers a proven path to relief. By addressing the root causes—whether they be muscular, postural, or stress-related—physical therapy helps reduce pain, restore normal jaw function, and improve long-term comfort.
If you’re struggling with jaw discomfort or suspect you have a TMJ disorder, don’t wait—consult with a skilled physical therapist at ActiveCare Physical Therapy. We specialize in TMJ dysfunction.
ActiveCare Physical Therapy™
29 West 38th Street, Suite 601
New York, NY 10018
Phone: (212) 777-4374
Email: staff@bestptnyc.com
Website: https://activecarephysicaltherapy.com
Jaw Joint Pain: Understanding Bruxism and TMJ Discomfort
Jaw joint pain, medically known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain, can have various causes, and one common factor is bruxism, or jaw grinding. Bruxism is a condition where individuals involuntarily clench or grind their teeth, often during sleep. This persistent grinding can lead to discomfort and pain in the TMJ area. In this post, we’ll explore the connection between jaw grinding (bruxism) and TMJ pain, as well as strategies for finding relief and managing this condition.
The Connection Between Bruxism and TMJ Pain
Bruxism and TMJ pain are closely related due to the excessive stress and strain placed on the temporomandibular joints during grinding. Here’s how bruxism can contribute to TMJ discomfort:
1. Overloading the TMJ
The forceful grinding and clenching of teeth exert significant pressure on the TMJ, potentially leading to inflammation and pain.
2. Muscle Tension
Bruxism can cause the muscles surrounding the jaw to become tense and overworked, contributing to TMJ pain.
3. Jaw Misalignment
Chronic bruxism may result in misalignment of the jaw, leading to jaw joint pain and discomfort.
Consequences of Bruxism on TMJ
Persistent bruxism can result in several issues related to the TMJ, including:
1. TMJ Pain
The excessive forces exerted during grinding can lead to inflammation and pain in the temporomandibular joints.
2. Jaw Stiffness
Bruxism can cause the jaw to become stiff and limited in movement, making it difficult to open and close the mouth comfortably.
3. Headaches
Tension in the jaw and surrounding muscles from bruxism may contribute to tension headaches and migraines.
4. Tooth Damage
Chronic grinding can result in tooth wear, fractures, or even tooth loss.
Finding Relief and Managing Bruxism
If you suspect that bruxism is causing your TMJ pain, there are strategies to find relief and manage this condition:
1. Mouthguards or Splints
Dentists often recommend custom-fitted mouthguards or splints to protect teeth from grinding and alleviate pressure on the TMJ.
2. Stress Reduction
Practicing stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or counseling can help reduce bruxism triggered by stress.
3. Medications
In some cases, muscle relaxants or anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed to manage bruxism.
4. Dental Correction
Dental procedures like dental crowns, bridges, or orthodontic treatments may be necessary to correct tooth damage or jaw misalignment caused by bruxism.
5. Physical Therapy
Physical therapists can provide exercises and techniques to relax jaw muscles and improve jaw joint function.
Conclusion
Jaw grinding, or bruxism, can indeed cause discomfort and pain in the TMJ area. Recognizing the connection between bruxism and TMJ pain is the first step toward finding relief and managing the condition. If you suspect that bruxism is contributing to your TMJ discomfort, consult with a dentist or a healthcare professional who specializes in TMJ disorders to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.
Contact Information
ActiveCare Physical Therapy™
29 West 38th Street, Suite 601
New York, NY 10018
Phone: (212) 777-4374
Email: staff@bestptnyc.com
Website: https://activecarephysicaltherapy.com/
Posture Causing Jaw Joint Pain: Understanding the Connection and Finding Relief
In this post, we’ll explore the connection between posture and jaw joint pain, as well as strategies for finding relief. Jaw joint pain, also known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain, can be a distressing and uncomfortable condition. While many factors can contribute to TMJ pain, one often-overlooked factor is poor posture. Your posture can significantly impact the alignment of your jaw and the function of your temporomandibular joints.
The Posture-Jaw Joint Connection
The temporomandibular joints are responsible for the movement of your jaw, allowing you to speak, chew, and yawn. Proper alignment and function of these joints are crucial for pain-free jaw movement. Poor posture can disrupt this alignment in several ways:
1. Forward Head Posture
When you have a forward head posture, your head is positioned in front of your shoulders, straining the neck and upper back muscles. This misalignment can affect the alignment of your jaw, leading to TMJ pain.
2. Rounded Shoulders
Rounded shoulders and a slouched upper back can compress the chest and affect the position of your jaw, potentially leading to jaw joint pain.
3. Jaw Clenching and Teeth Grinding
Poor posture can exacerbate habits like jaw clenching and teeth grinding, which can strain the jaw joints and lead to pain.
Consequences of Poor Posture on the Jaw
Continued poor posture can result in various issues related to the jaw joint, including:
1. TMJ Pain
Misalignment of the jaw due to poor posture can cause discomfort and pain in the temporomandibular joints.
2. Headaches
Jaw joint misalignment can contribute to tension headaches and migraines.
3. Facial Pain
Pain in the jaw joint area and facial muscles can occur as a result of poor posture.
4. Clicking or Popping Sounds
Improper jaw alignment may lead to clicking or popping sounds when opening and closing your mouth.
Finding Relief for Jaw Joint Pain and Improving Posture
If you’re experiencing jaw joint pain associated with poor posture, there are steps you can take to find relief and improve your posture:
1. Postural Awareness
Consciously work on maintaining good posture throughout the day. Pay attention to the position of your head, shoulders, and spine.
2. Ergonomic Workspace
Set up an ergonomic workspace with a supportive chair, an adjustable monitor, and proper keyboard and mouse placement to encourage better posture.
3. Stretching and Strengthening
Incorporate neck and upper back stretches and strengthening exercises into your daily routine to help counteract the effects of poor posture.
4. Stress Reduction
Practice stress reduction techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to reduce the likelihood of jaw clenching and teeth grinding.
5. Consult a Professional
Consider seeking guidance from a physical therapist or a dentist specializing in TMJ disorders. They can provide specific exercises and treatments to address both posture and jaw joint issues.
Jaw Joint Pain: Conclusion
Jaw joint pain related to poor posture is a significant concern that can impact your daily life. By understanding the connection between posture and TMJ pain and taking proactive steps to improve your posture, you can find relief and prevent further discomfort. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re experiencing persistent jaw joint pain to address both the posture and jaw joint issues effectively.
The Team at ActiveCare Physical Therapy addresses your posture when treating jaw joint pain. We are expert manual physical therapists who work the entire kinetic chain and specifically the upper neck to help jaw joint issues. Call us now to book an appointment.
Contact Information
ActiveCare Physical Therapy™
29 West 38th Street, Suite 601
New York, NY 10018
Phone: (212) 777-4374
Email: staff@bestptnyc.com
Website: https://activecarephysicaltherapy.com/
ActiveCare Physical Therapy, PC
29 West 38th Street
Suite 601
New York, NY 10018
