Melbourne's TMJ & Jaw Pain Treatment Specialists

Expert Physiotherapy Care with Rocabado Protocol for Temporomandibular Joint Disorders

Physiotherapist performing TMJ assessment on patient

At Keilor Road Physiotherapy, our experienced TMJ specialists combine the evidence-based Rocabado Protocol with advanced manual therapy and collaborative dental care to deliver lasting relief from jaw pain, clicking, and dysfunction. Led by Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist Dr. Jenny Hynes (FACP), our team addresses the root causes of your temporomandibular joint disorder through comprehensive assessment and targeted treatment.

 

Meet Our TMJ Specialists

Avit Vaghela - Physiotherapist

TMJ & Manual Therapy Specialist

  • Masters of Physiotherapy (University of Canberra)

  • Bachelor in Exercise and Sport Science (Exercise Physiology major)

  • Specialised training in dry needling for TMD (Temporomandibular Disorders)

  • Expert in treating jaw dysfunction and associated conditions

  • St. Kilda Football Club experience (NGA program)

  • Combines manual therapy with evidence-based strengthening

  • Tailored management planning for individual goals

  • Focus on treating underlying causes, not just symptoms

Robbie Webb - Sports Physiotherapist

TMJ & Musculoskeletal Specialist

  • Masters in Sports Physiotherapy (La Trobe University)

  • Special interest in chronic pain conditions including TMJ

  • APPI qualified Pilates instructor for postural rehabilitation

  • Combines hands-on manual therapy with progressive rehabilitation

  • Experience treating TMJ dysfunction in athletes and active individuals

Scott Sanders - Physiotherapist

TMJ & Manual Therapy Expert

  • Masters of Physiotherapy (University of Melbourne)

  • Advanced training in trigger point therapy and dry needling for TMJ

  • Specialist in treating underlying causes, not just symptoms

  • Experience with complex jaw dysfunction cases

  • Focus on cervical spine and postural contributions to TMJ pain

  • Hands-on treatment approach for optimal outcomes

The Rocabado Protocol - Evidence-Based TMJ Treatment

Physiotherapist demonstrating Rocabado exercises with patient]

Rocabado Protocol - TMJ Treatment

A Comprehensive Approach to Jaw Dysfunction

At KRP, we utilise the internationally recognised Rocabado Protocol - a systematic, evidence-based approach specifically designed for temporomandibular joint disorders. Developed by physiotherapist Mariano Rocabado, this protocol addresses the complex relationship between jaw dysfunction, cervical spine positioning, and postural factors.

Why the Rocabado Protocol Works:

The Rocabado Protocol recognises that TMJ dysfunction rarely exists in isolation. It addresses:

Cervical Spine Positioning

Forward head posture's contribution to TMJ pain

Resting Tongue Position

Proper oral posture for jaw muscle relaxation

Breathing Patterns

Nasal vs. mouth breathing impacts on jaw position

Postural Alignment

Upper back and shoulder positioning affecting jaw mechanics

Disc-Condyle Relationship

Restoring proper joint mechanics

The Rocabado Core Exercises include:

Tongue to Roof (Rest Position)

Establishes proper oral posture, reduces jaw muscle tension

Controlled Jaw Opening

Trains coordinated movement, prevents joint clicking

Rhythmic Stabilisation

Strengthens jaw muscles, improves joint stability

Chin Tucks

Addresses forward head posture contributing to TMJ pain

Shoulder Blade Squeezes

Corrects upper back posture affecting jaw mechanics

Diaphragmatic Breathing

Promotes relaxation, reduces jaw clenching

These exercises are performed six times per day during the active treatment phase, creating lasting changes in jaw mechanics and muscle patterns.

Our Comprehensive TMJ Assessment:

Detailed history of jaw symptoms, grinding, clenching, and trauma

TMJ mobility and clicking/popping assessment

Muscle palpation of jaw muscles (masseter, temporalis, pterygoids)

Cervical spine and postural examination

Assessment of forward head posture and upper back positioning

Tongue position and breathing pattern evaluation

Bite assessment and dental history review

Stress and sleep pattern evaluation

Collaborative Care with Dental Professionals

Objective Measurement for Complete Shoulder Recovery

Traditional shoulder assessments rely on subjective manual muscle testing that can miss subtle strength deficits. Our AxIT dynamometry system provides objective, measurable data about your shoulder strength and function.


AxIT for Shoulder Assessment:

The AxIT dynamometry equipment measures:

  • Rotator cuff strength in all directions (external rotation, internal rotation, abduction)

  • Shoulder blade (scapular) muscle strength

  • Left-right shoulder symmetry to identify imbalances

  • Baseline measurements to track recovery progress

  • Post-operative strength recovery after rotator cuff surgery

  • Return-to-sport readiness with objective criteria

  • Specific muscle weakness patterns guiding targeted exercises


Why AxIT Matters for Shoulder Treatment:

  • Rotator cuff injuries: Measures specific strength deficits to guide rehabilitation

  • Post-surgical recovery: Tracks strength restoration after rotator cuff repair

  • Impingement syndrome: Identifies muscle imbalances contributing to symptoms

  • Throwing athletes: Measures external/internal rotation ratios critical for overhead sports

  • Prevention of re-injury: Ensures complete strength recovery before returning to activities


Evidence-Based Return to Sport:

Research shows specific strength thresholds required for safe return to overhead activities. AxIT testing ensures you meet these criteria objectively.


 

Anatomical illustration of shoulder showing rotator cuff, labrum, bursa, AC joint

Comprehensive Shoulder Conditions Treated

Comprehensive Shoulder Conditions Treated

Rotator Cuff Injuries

Tears & Tendinopathy

  • Rotator cuff tendinopathy
  • Partial rotator cuff tears
  • Full thickness rotator cuff tears
  • Supraspinatus tendinopathy
  • Infraspinatus and teres minor injuries
  • Subscapularis tears
  • Post-operative rotator cuff repair rehabilitation

Impingement & Bursitis

Structural Problems

  • Subacromial impingement syndrome
  • Internal impingement (throwing athletes)
  • Subacromial bursitis
  • Calcific tendinitis
  • Shoulder impingement from poor mechanics

Shoulder Instability

Labral & Ligament Injuries

  • Shoulder dislocation (anterior, posterior)
  • Recurrent shoulder instability
  • Labral tears (SLAP lesions)
  • Bankart lesions
  • Multidirectional instability
  • Post-surgical stabilisation rehabilitation

Frozen Shoulder & Stiffness

Adhesive Conditions

  • Adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder)
  • Post-fracture shoulder stiffness
  • Post-operative shoulder stiffness
  • Capsular restrictions
  • Limited range of motion

AC Joint & Collar Bone Problems

Joint Injuries

  • AC joint sprains and separations
  • AC joint arthritis
  • Distal clavicle osteolysis
  • Post-surgical AC joint reconstruction

Other Shoulder Conditions

Complex & Chronic

  • Biceps tendinopathy
  • SLAP tears
  • Thoracic outlet syndrome
  • Scapular dyskinesis (shoulder blade dysfunction)
  • Cervicogenic shoulder pain (neck-related)
  • Nerve-related shoulder/arm pain
  • Postural shoulder pain

Post-Operative Rehabilitation

Surgical Recovery

  • Rotator cuff repair
  • Shoulder arthroscopy
  • Labral repair
  • Shoulder stabilisation surgery
  • Subacromial decompression
  • AC joint reconstruction
  • Shoulder replacement (total and reverse)
  • Fracture fixation

Sport-Specific Shoulder Injuries

Overhead Sport Conditions

  • Swimming shoulder injuries
  • Throwing injuries (cricket, baseball)
  • Tennis and racquet sport shoulders
  • Netball shoulder problems
  • AFL shoulder injuries
  • Gym and weightlifting injuries

 Evidence-Based Treatment Approach

Manual Therapy & Joint Mobilisation

  • Shoulder joint mobilisation for stiffness

  • Soft tissue release (rotator cuff, trapezius, pectorals)

  • Trigger point therapy

  • Dry needling for muscle tension

  • Scapular mobilisation techniques

  • Neural mobilisation for nerve symptoms

  • Cervical spine treatment when indicated

Clinical Pilates for Shoulder Stability

  • APPI-certified Pilates instruction

  • Core and scapular integration exercises

  • Movement control and coordination

  • Postural correction for shoulder mechanics

  • Low-impact rehabilitation option

AxIT-Guided Rotator Cuff Strengthening

  • Objective baseline strength assessment

  • Progressive resistance training guided by AxIT data

  • Specific rotator cuff strengthening (external rotation priority)

  • Scapular stabiliser strengthening

  • Left-right symmetry correction

  • Regular reassessment to track progress

  • Evidence-based strength targets for return to sport

Sport-Specific Rehabilitation

  • Overhead throwing mechanics training

  • Swimming technique optimisation

  • Tennis/racquet sport conditioning

  • Gym exercise modification and progression

  • Return to sport protocols

  • Injury prevention programs

 

Expert Post-Operative Shoulder Rehabilitation

Physiotherapist working with post-operative patient doing shoulder exercises

Specialist-Level Surgical Recovery

Specialist-Level Surgical Recovery

We provide comprehensive pre and post-operative rehabilitation for all shoulder surgeries, working in collaboration with orthopedic surgeons across Melbourne's northwest.

Rotator Cuff Repair Rehabilitation

Our evidence-based protocol follows surgeon-specific guidelines:

  • Phase 1 (0-6 weeks): Protection, passive range of motion, pain management
  • Phase 2 (6-12 weeks): Active range of motion, gentle strengthening
  • Phase 3 (3-6 months): Progressive strengthening with AxIT monitoring
  • Phase 4 (6-12 months): Return to activity and sport-specific training
AxIT testing at key milestones to ensure adequate strength recovery

Coordination with surgeon for clearance decisions

Other Shoulder Surgeries We Rehabilitate

  • Shoulder arthroscopy for impingement
  • Labral repair (SLAP, Bankart)
  • Shoulder stabilisation procedures
  • AC joint reconstruction
  • Biceps tenodesis
  • Shoulder replacement (total and reverse)
  • Subacromial decompression

Orthopedic Surgeon Partnerships

We maintain strong relationships with Melbourne's most trusted orthopedic surgeons ensuring:

  • Pre-operative conditioning ("prehab") to optimise outcomes
  • Adherence to surgeon-specific protocols
  • Regular progress reports to surgical team
  • Objective AxIT strength data for decision-making
  • Seamless communication throughout recovery
Why Choose KRP for Shoulder Treatment

Why Choose KRP for Shoulder Treatment?

Comprehensive Cervical Assessment

Identify cervical spine contributions to shoulder pain that conventional assessments miss - ensuring all contributing factors are addressed for complete recovery.

Advanced AxIT Strength Testing

Objective rotator cuff and shoulder strength measurement guides rehabilitation, tracks progress with measurable data, and determines safe return to activity.

Expert Post-Operative Care

Comprehensive rehabilitation protocols for all shoulder surgeries with strong orthopedic surgeon partnerships for coordinated care.

Sports Physiotherapy Expertise

Football team physiotherapists and sports trainers with extensive experience treating overhead sport shoulder injuries and facilitating return to sport.

Comprehensive Rehabilitation Facilities

State-of-the-art onsite exercise studio with specialised equipment for progressive shoulder strengthening and functional training.

Over 90% Success Rate

More than 90% of our shoulder patients achieve significant improvement and return to full function with our evidence-based approach.

What to Expect at Your Assessment

What to Expect at Your Assessment

Initial Shoulder Assessment

40 minutes
  • Comprehensive shoulder injury history and functional limitations
  • Physical examination including range of motion, strength, and special tests
  • Comprehensive cervical spine assessment for neck contribution
  • AxIT strength testing for rotator cuff and shoulder muscles (when appropriate)
  • Scapular movement and postural assessment
  • Review of imaging if available (MRI, ultrasound, X-ray)
  • Clear diagnosis with explanation of findings
  • Customised treatment plan with realistic timeline
  • Immediate hands-on treatment
  • Home exercise program

Follow-Up Treatment Sessions

20-40 minutes
  • Progressive manual therapy and joint mobilisation
  • Cervical spine treatment if neck component identified
  • AxIT-guided rotator cuff strengthening
  • Scapular stabilisation exercises
  • Sport-specific or functional rehabilitation
  • Regular reassessment with AxIT to track progress
  • Treatment plan adjustments based on objective data
  • Coordination with orthopedic surgeon for post-operative cases

Quick Answers to Common Questions

  • Recovery timelines vary:

    • Tendinopathy (no tear): 8-12 weeks with progressive strengthening

    • Partial tears: 12-16 weeks for conservative management

    • Post-surgical repair: 6-12 months for full recovery and return to sport

    Frozen shoulder: 12-18 months is typical natural history, physiotherapy can reduce duration

  • Many rotator cuff injuries respond well to physiotherapy without surgery, particularly partial tears and tendinopathy. We provide conservative management trials and coordinate with orthopedic surgeons if surgery becomes necessary.

  • Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) involves progressive stiffness and pain in the shoulder. We provide gentle mobilisation, pain management, and progressive stretching to improve range of motion and reduce recovery time.

  • Our comprehensive assessment can identify if your neck is contributing to shoulder symptoms by specifically examining cervical spine dysfunction and reproducing your pain patterns. Many "shoulder" problems have cervical components.

  • Overhead sports typically require 9-12 months post-surgery. You must demonstrate adequate rotator cuff strength (measured by AxIT), pain-free range of motion, and good throwing/movement mechanics before clearance.

  • Impingement occurs when structures in your shoulder joint are compressed during movement, typically involving the rotator cuff and bursa rubbing against the acromion bone. It's often caused by muscle imbalances, poor posture, or structural factors.

  • Yes! AxIT provides objective measurement of your rotator cuff strength, tracks improvements over time, identifies specific weaknesses to target, and determines when you've achieved adequate strength for return to activities.

  • No referral is needed. However, a GP referral allows Medicare rebates through a Chronic Disease Management plan, and may be required for coordination with orthopedic surgeons if surgery is needed.

  • We work with Medicare CDM plans with a small gap payment and accept all private health insurance. On-the-spot rebates available for eligible patients.

 

Book Your Shoulder Assessment Today

 
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Don't let shoulder pain limit your activities or delay your recovery from surgery. Our shoulder specialists combine comprehensive biomechanical assessment with advanced AxIT strength testing to deliver precise diagnosis and measurable results.

Same-day appointments available for acute shoulder injuries.

Servicing: Keilor, Niddrie, Essendon, Airport West, and Melbourne's northwest suburbs for over 40 years.

Call: (03) 9379 4557

Clinic Hours: Monday: 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM Sunday: Closed

Expert shoulder care with advanced AxIT strength testing. Post-operative rehabilitation expertise with orthopedic surgeon partnerships. Sports physiotherapy experience and over 90% success rate.