Physical Therapy

Who? What? How?

Airway-minded Physical Therapists see airway health as a critical component of overall health and wellbeing. Their multidisciplinary approach includes airway assessments that help them identify causes of pain and dysfunction, such as airway compromise and TMDs. Their treatment comprises manual therapy, patient education for behavior modifications, and therapeutic exercises to restore normal movement, correct posture, and improve breathing patterns - all aimed at enhancing airway function and overall well-being.

Watch Our Free Webinar

Dr. Brad Gilden, leader of the AAPMD's Physical Therapy section, highlights groundbreaking advances in airway health and TMJ management. By joining the section, members access monthly webinars and an annual conference, focusing on innovative strategies to improve patient care and professional growth.

FAQ

How do physical therapists and dentists work together to address TMD?

Physical therapists and dentists collaboratively address TMD by combining dental interventions, like oral appliances, with physical therapy, which includes manual therapies, postural corrections, and therapeutic exercises, to alleviate pain, restore function, and improve jaw and overall orofacial health.

Aren’t Airway/TMDs a problem with my bite? So why am I seeing a physical therapist?

While Airway/TMDs can involve bite problems, they also impact muscles and joints, areas physical therapists specialize in. Physical therapists provide therapeutic exercises and manual techniques to improve jaw mobility, reduce pain, and enhance overall function alongside dental treatment plans.

Why haven’t dentists been taught how to evaluate the TMJ and apply the techniques you have utilized and have been so helpful?

Traditionally, dentistry and physical therapy have been different fields with specific focuses that did not collaborate or overlap. Dentists primarily focus on oral health while physical therapists are experts in muscle, joint, and nerve functionality. The specialized training required for airway-focused physical therapy isn’t typically part of dental education yet.

How do I locate an airway minded physical therapist?

To find an airway-minded physical therapist, use the provider locator found at the top of this page or reach out directly to the physical therapy section through email (add email address here) to request recommendations based on your specific needs.

Meet Our Section Leader’s

Brad Gilden, MPT, DPT, FFMT, FAAOMPT, PRC, CSCS

Physical Therapists are at the forefront of evaluating and treating patients with airway issues. We are an integral part of the airway team addressing postural, breathing, and movement mechanics that have a direct impact on airway health. As director of the physical

Cynthia Peterson, PT, OMT, CEAS, CST

The whole body is connected… Why would you put straight teeth on a crooked body? I appreciate AAPMD’s efforts to incorporate physical therapists (PTs) in orofacial myofunctional therapy. I recognize the unique skills we bring and honor all…

Lenore Morrissey, MPT, DPT, OCS, CFC

In the future of physical therapy, the legacy lies in the imperative collaboration among like-minded professionals who recognize and appreciate the inherent capability of our entire body’s contribution in the airway centric field…..

Jenny Hobson, PT, DPT, MTC, CFC, CMTPT

The AAPMD Physical Therapy section is crucial to our profession. As leaders in musculoskeletal function, PTs recognize the importance of oropharynx, tongue, and nasal breathing for airway support. Let’s educate others, build an airway-focused medical team, and make a difference. Collaboration with AAPMD

Ashley Larson, PT, C.NDT, COMB

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Dina Delgado, PT, LLCC, CCTT

We are very fortunate to have the AAPMD and this Physical Therapy section as a venue for an open respectful “meeting of the minds” of physical therapists with various experiences and years of practice to share and learn from each other for our growth and the good of our patients. Being involved in the “Airway/TMD/Craniofacial…

Bill Esser, PT, MS, CCTT

The AAPMD facilitates interdisciplinary discussions on orofacial pain, bridging historical gaps between medicine and dentistry. Even after four decades, as a retiree, my involvement with AAPMD expands my understanding of the interdisciplinary aspects of orofacial pain. This enriches the knowledge I can share with physical therapists, dentists, and physicians