Is it permissible for a PT to evaluate a patient presenting with a jaw disorder?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only with imaging
• D. Only after referral

Answer: (A)

Evaluating jaw disorders can be within a physical therapist’s scope, especially when the issue is musculoskeletal in nature like temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Under direct access, a PT can initiate the evaluation without a referral to determine if PT care is appropriate or if another path is needed.

During the initial evaluation, the PT takes the patient’s history, screens for red flags (such as signs of infection, trauma, or systemic disease), and conducts a focused exam of the jaw and related regions. This includes jaw range of motion, any deviation or difficulty with opening and closing, pain with movement, bite alignment, palpation of jaw muscles (like the masseter and temporalis), and a quick cervical/postural screen to identify contributing factors. The PT then decides on a course of conservative treatment—such as targeted exercises, manual therapy, posture correction, and modalities—or refers to a dentist or physician if dental pathology or non-musculoskeletal issues are suspected or if imaging is indicated. Because imaging is not required for the initial evaluation and is used selectively, evaluating a patient with a jaw disorder is permissible.