The Role of Physical Therapy in Temporomandibular Disorders
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In this podcast, Dr. Janey Prodoehl discusses the vital role of physical therapy (PT) in managing temporomandibular disorders (TMD). PT is a conservative, evidence-supported first-line treatment that addresses pain and functional limitations through manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, neuromuscular reeducation, and patient education. Acute TMD cases focus on rapid symptom relief and restoring movement, while chronic cases require structured, multidisciplinary care due to widespread pain and neuroplastic changes. PTs must screen for conditions outside their scope and collaborate with dentists, neurologists, and psychologists. Training in TMD varies among PTs, with advanced certifications like CCTT indicating specialized expertise. Dr. Prodoehl emphasizes the need for standardized education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and improved access to care. She is leading a national initiative to develop clinical guidelines for PTs treating TMD, aiming to enhance care quality and empower clinicians. The future of PT in orofacial pain management is promising with ongoing efforts to bridge gaps in training and practice.
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss the role of physical therapy in the diagnosis and management of orofacial pain patients
- Identify the physical therapy interventions for the management of temporomandibular disorders
- Outline how dentists and physical therapists can effectively collaborate as part of a multidisciplinary approach to the management of orofacial pain patients
This continuing education activity is worth 0.75 credits.
Janey Prodoehl
PT, PhD, CCTT
Janey Prodoehl is a physical therapist and Professor in the Physical Therapy Program and College of Dental Medicine Illinois at Midwestern University Downers Grove, Illinois. She completed her entry level physical therapy degree in Leeds, England and doctoral and post-doctoral studies at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Dr. Prodoehl has authored numerous publications from her research. She sees patients in the Physical Therapy Institute at Midwestern University with a physical therapy practice focused on neck pain, orofacial pain and headache, and dry needling for musculoskeletal dysfunction. She is a Certified Cervical & Temporomandibular Therapist by the Physical Therapy Board of Craniofacial & Cervical Therapeutics. She is currently leading a team in the development of a clinical practice guideline sponsored by the American Physical Therapy Association, on Temporomandibular Disorders: diagnosis and management for physical therapists.
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