Many patients who present to craniofacial physical therapy with facial pain, jaw dysfunction, or unexplained aural symptoms have contributing factors that originate outside the temporomandibular joint itself. Clinical presentations commonly include bruxism, masticatory muscle overactivity, altered mandibular and craniocervical posture, ear fullness, tinnitus, fatigue, sleep disturbance, and persistent symptoms despite otherwise appropriate TMD management. These cases can be challenging to assess because ENT-related contributors such as chronic nasal obstruction, sleep-disordered breathing, and eustachian tube dysfunction often mimic or amplify musculoskeletal findings, making differential diagnosis difficult when symptoms are attributed solely to the jaw.
 

This webinar provides the otolaryngologist’s perspective on the TMD patient, combining a practical review of ENT anatomy and terminology with an exploration of the anatomical, neurophysiological, and biopsychosocial relationships linking upper airway function, sleep quality, pain, and jaw activity. Participants will learn how shared trigeminal pathways can contribute to overlapping facial and ear symptoms, why normal ear testing may coexist with significant aural complaints, and which clinical findings may indicate an underlying ENT component. The webinar also addresses limitations in standard physical therapy education regarding upper airway and otologic disorders, highlights the value of specialist perspectives, and outlines when interdisciplinary collaboration can improve outcomes. Emphasis is placed on identifying referral-relevant findings, recognizing red flags, and coordinating care effectively between physical therapists and otolaryngologists.