Question 1

Can physiotherapy cure tinnitus?

Accepted Answer

Physiotherapy can significantly reduce or eliminate somatosensory tinnitus — the subtype driven by dysfunction in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and upper cervical spine, estimated to account for 25–30% of all tinnitus cases. By treating the somatic input converging on the dorsal cochlear nucleus (via jaw mobilisation, intra-oral myofascial release, and cervical manual therapy), patients frequently experience reduced loudness, intrusiveness or full resolution of ringing. Purely inner-ear (sensorineural) tinnitus is harder to treat, but even here, addressing musculoskeletal contributors often makes symptoms less bothersome.

Question 2

What happens during a TMJ physiotherapy assessment?

Accepted Answer

A first-visit TMJ physiotherapy assessment with Krina Panchal lasts 60 minutes and includes: (1) a detailed clinical history covering jaw, headache, tinnitus and dental history, (2) measurement of mandibular range of motion, deviation and joint sounds, (3) palpation of the temporomandibular joint, masseter, temporalis and lateral/medial pterygoid muscles, (4) assessment of the upper cervical spine (C1–C3) using Watson Headache® provocation tests, (5) postural, cranial nerve and neurological screening, and (6) a personalised treatment plan with a clear estimate of how many sessions you will need. Most patients receive their first hands-on treatment in the same session.

Question 3

Does health insurance cover TMJ physiotherapy?

Accepted Answer

Yes — The TMD Physio is an approved provider for Cigna, WPA, Bupa Global and Healix Health, all of whom typically cover TMJ physiotherapy with a valid policy code. We do NOT currently accept Bupa (UK), AXA PPP, Aviva or Vitality — but we can still provide detailed self-pay invoices for these insurers and many patients successfully reclaim via out-of-network routes. Self-pay is available with flexible payment options and block packages.

Question 4

Do you accept insurance?

Accepted Answer

We accept Cigna, WPA, Bupa Global and Healix Health. We do NOT accept Bupa (UK), AXA PPP, Aviva or Vitality — we can still provide detailed self-pay invoices for these providers, and many patients reclaim through their plan's out-of-network route. For self-pay, we offer flexible payment options and block packages.

Question 5

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Please bring any relevant medical reports, imaging results (X-rays, MRI scans), a list of current medications, and your insurance details if applicable. Wear comfortable clothing that allows access to your neck and jaw area.

Question 6

How is TMD physiotherapy different from regular physiotherapy?

Accepted Answer

TMD physiotherapy requires specialized training in jaw anatomy, biomechanics, and the complex relationship between the jaw, neck, and head. Krina has undertaken extensive postgraduate training specifically in TMD and cranial therapy, which isn't covered in standard physiotherapy training.

Question 7

Do you offer emergency appointments?

Accepted Answer

We understand that jaw pain and severe headaches can be debilitating. While we don't typically offer same-day emergency appointments, we prioritize urgent cases and will do our best to see you as quickly as possible. Contact us via WhatsApp or phone to discuss your needs.

Question 8

What is TMD and what are the most common symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) refers to issues affecting the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. Common symptoms include localized jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds when chewing, limited jaw movement, locked jaw, facial tension, headaches, and jaw-related tinnitus.

Question 9

Can a specialized physiotherapist really fix jaw clicking and popping?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. Jaw clicking is frequently caused by a displaced joint disc or muscle imbalances. Focused TMD physiotherapy uses targeted joint mobilization, trigger point therapy, and neuromuscular retraining to safely restore proper alignment and eliminate clicking.

Question 10

What should I expect during my initial TMD consultation at your London clinic?

Accepted Answer

Your initial visit involves a comprehensive assessment of your jaw range of motion, joint tracking, cervical spine posture, and masticatory muscle palpation. We isolate the root neuromuscular cause of your symptoms to construct a custom treatment pathway.

Question 11

Can jaw joint issues cause tinnitus, ear pain, or dizziness?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there is a profound structural and neurological connection between the jaw and the ears. TMD can cause somatic tinnitus (ringing in ears without hearing loss), a feeling of ear fullness, and vertigo due to proximity and shared nerve pathways.

Question 12

How many physiotherapy sessions will I need to resolve my jaw pain?

Accepted Answer

While every case varies, many patients experience noticeable symptomatic relief within 3 to 6 targeted treatment sessions. Chronic, complex, or multi-year cases may require an extended structural rehabilitation protocol combined with dental splint therapies.

Question 13

Is a referral from a dentist or GP required to book an appointment?

Accepted Answer

No medical or dental referral is required to book a private assessment at our Waterloo clinic. You can book directly with our clinical team, though we regularly collaborate with dental specialists for integrated care.

Question 14

Do you offer specialized treatment for chronic migraines and headaches?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Chronic tension headaches and persistent migraines are frequently referred pain patterns radiating from hyperactive jaw muscles and upper cervical spinal dysfunctions. TMD physiotherapy addresses these root triggers directly.

Question 15

How does your practice coordinate care with dental specialists?

Accepted Answer

We run an integrated clinical cross-referral pathway. If your TMD is caused or aggravated by structural bite issues, we partner with specialized dentists to coordinate custom stabilizing splint therapy alongside physical rehabilitation.

Question 16

Are jaw exercises safe to perform at home without supervision?

Accepted Answer

Home exercises are an essential part of your recovery, but they must be precisely calibrated to your specific joint tracking. Performing generic exercises found online can worsen disc displacements, so we provide an individualized prescription.

Question 17

Where is your Central London clinic located, and do you offer evening appointments?

Accepted Answer

The clinic is in Waterloo at 121 Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7HR, a minute from Lambeth North. Appointments run Tuesday 10:15am–1:30pm, Wednesday and Friday 8am–7pm, and Thursday 10am–8pm, so Thursday evenings until 8pm and Wednesday or Friday from 8am suit most working days.

Your questions about TMD physiotherapy, answered.

Common Questions