A new Physiopedia Plus (Plus) programme led by South Africa-based physiotherapist and researcher Micaela Weinberg offers comprehensive training in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) management, an area frequently mismanaged across clinical practice. The programme covers everything from foundational anatomy to complex diagnostic reasoning, and is now available to rehabilitation professionals worldwide via a Plus subscription.
A new comprehensive TMJ Masterclass Programme has recently been published on Plus, offering physiotherapists in-depth knowledge of one of the most complex and frequently mismanaged areas in clinical practice. The programme, led by physiotherapist Micaela Weinberg, addresses a significant gap in professional education by equipping practitioners with the understanding and practical skills needed to confidently assess and treat TMJ disorders.
It is (the TMJ) the most complex joint in the body and the most fascinating in my opinion. – Micaela Weinberg, Plus Instructor
Micaela Weinberg is a physiotherapist based in Johannesburg, South Africa, whose expertise spans a decade of advanced study and research. She completed her master’s degree and PhD, focusing specifically on the temporomandibular joint and related conditions, bringing rigorous academic credentials alongside extensive clinical experience. Her passion for this specialised area stems from recognising both the complexity of TMJ dysfunction and the current gaps in how it is managed across healthcare disciplines.
The programme addresses a fundamental problem in clinical practice. Patients with temporomandibular disorders are frequently misdiagnosed, with their symptoms dismissed as anxiety, depression or simple bruxism, when in fact a wide range of evidence-based interventions can be effective. By equipping physiotherapists with comprehensive knowledge and advanced assessment skills, this programme positions the profession to reclaim expertise in an area where multiple disciplines are expanding their scope.
The TMJ needs to be able to absorb the constant load that is put onto this joint as we use it over 2000 times a day. We use it to talk, to breathe, to chew, to yawn, to sing. – Micaela Weinberg, Plus Instructor
From foundational anatomy to complex diagnostic reasoning, the TMJ programme builds systematic understanding of this intricate joint. The curriculum begins with thorough anatomical knowledge, examining the joint structure, the muscles involved, the capsule and the disc and how these components work together during different movements. Rather than treating this as theoretical knowledge, the programme emphasises functional understanding. Practitioners learn what normal TMJ movement should look like during opening, closing and lateral movements, enabling them to identify pathology with greater accuracy.
Beyond basic anatomy and function, the programme explores the full spectrum of temporomandibular disorders, moving beyond the common misconception that TMJ problems are simply “TMJ”. The curriculum addresses how to distinguish between different types of TMJ dysfunction through thorough subjective and objective assessment, with particular emphasis on clinical reasoning. The programme teaches that a skilled clinician should have an 80% understanding of the diagnosis following the subjective assessment alone, with objective testing serving to confirm clinical impressions.
What distinguishes this programme is its focus on associated conditions that commonly accompany TMJ dysfunction. These include eustachian tube dysfunction, tinnitus, migraines and cervicalgia. By understanding these connections, physiotherapists can provide truly comprehensive care and explain to patients why treating their jaw may resolve seemingly unrelated symptoms.
The programme acknowledges that knowledge in this area continues to evolve. Rather than presenting information as static fact, Micaela emphasises the ongoing nature of clinical learning and discovery.
One of the best courses on Physiopedia, practical, relevant and informative! – Candice Morgan, Physiotherapist, South Africa
Physiotherapists completing this programme gain practical tools they can implement immediately in clinical practice. The emphasis throughout is on clinical application, giving practitioners the confidence and skills to work with these patients and achieve meaningful results. For healthcare professionals seeking to develop advanced expertise in TMJ management and differentiate their practice through specialised knowledge, this programme offers comprehensive preparation.
The TMJ programme is now available as part of a Plus subscription for physiotherapists and other rehabilitation professionals worldwide who wish to deepen their understanding and expand their clinical capabilities in this complex and rewarding area of practice.
This article was written by one of our course instructors...
Tarina van der Stockt
PT (BphysT), DPT
Education Director Physiopedia Plus