Jaw Rehabilitation Exercises To Support Post‑surgical Recovery

 Optimizing Post-Surgical Recovery: Jaw Rehabilitation Exercises 

Surgical procedures on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or involving the jaw structure (orthognathic surgery) require a thoughtful and consistent post-operative recovery strategy. A core element of this strategy is Jaw rehabilitation through targeted physical therapy exercises. These routines are instrumental in mitigating stiffness, managing discomfort, and successfully restoring normal mandibular function. Adherence to a structured plan is crucial for achieving long-term functional goals following intervention.

Mandibular Function: Restoring Motion

Following surgery, the surrounding muscles and soft tissues often become restricted, leading to reduced range of motion—a condition sometimes referred to as trismus. Without professional guidance and active movement, this restriction can persist, impacting daily activities like eating and speaking. The central purpose of Jaw rehabilitation is to gently and incrementally counteract these adverse effects. A physiotherapist guides the patient through a phased approach, ensuring exercises are appropriate for the current stage of healing and do not compromise surgical outcomes.


Specific Rehabilitation Techniques

Jaw rehabilitation protocols typically involve a combination of stretching and strengthening techniques.

  • Mobility and Stretching:

    • Controlled Opening: Gentle, slow movements to increase the distance the mouth can open without strain. This often involves using stacked tongue depressors or a specialized device to assist in passive stretching.

    • Lateral Excursions: Sliding the lower jaw from side to side in a controlled manner to promote movement across different planes.

    • Protrusion: Moving the lower jaw straight forward.

  • Strengthening and Coordination:

    • These exercises are introduced later in the healing phase to rebuild muscle endurance. They often involve light resistance applied manually by the patient or therapist against closing and opening movements, focusing on stabilization and muscle control.

Consistent execution of these movements is vital for a thorough Jaw rehabilitation.

Ensuring Convenient Clinic Access

The journey toward complete functional recovery requires expert guidance. A physiotherapist specializing in craniofacial and cervical disorders is uniquely positioned to design an individualized Jaw rehabilitation program.

Committing to consistent attendance is essential for success. For those seeking care, particularly in Alberta, logistical support can simplify the process: Jaw rehabilitation services are often accessible through clinics that prioritize patient convenience. At many clinics in Edmonton, individuals may find support through direct billing, with most insurance covered. Additional conveniences such as same day appointment, no referrals needed, walk-in patients, free parking, and wheelchair accessibility can make attending sessions more manageable.

A coordinated approach involving the patient, surgeon, and physical therapist helps ensure that each stage of TMJ physiotherapy promotes gradual progress toward comfortable and functional jaw movement.


Location: 6958 76 Ave NW #205, Edmonton, AB T6B 2R2, Canada

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