TMJ Dysfunction

This common jaw ailment is characterized by localized jaw and face pain, headaches, and ear pain. Learn how jaw massage can help relieve your pain and restore mobility.

Symptoms may include headaches and migraines, changes in hearing, and jaw sounds such as clicking during opening and closing. As well as difficulties moving the jaw and occasionally locking.

Causes of TMJ Dysfunction

Teeth grinding also known as bruxism is a common factor in TMJ Dysfunction. The constant muscle contractions during grinding results in muscle tension, trigger points, and pain. Bruxism can also cause changes to your teeth such as as cracks, chips, or wearing on the bite surface on the molars. Often discovered during a routine visit to your dentist.  Other causes of TMJ Dysfunction includes previous injury or trauma to jaw, head, or neck, postural imbalance, clenching, dental procedures, or an imperfect bite.

Massage treatments for TMJ Dysfunction

Initial appointments include a health intake, review of symptoms, palpation, assessment of joint range of motion, and a treatment. Jaw massage treatments involve soft tissue techniques to the head, face, neck, and jaw, and joint manipulations. Intra-oral massage performed wearing gloves can be indicated. These specialized treatments are beneficial in providing relief from pain, easing tension, and restoring range of motion.  

Is jaw massage painful?

Sometimes. The muscles involved for chewing and supporting the jaw joints are extremely small and quite sensitive. Many clients come to us for jaw massage with apprehensive. Many of these people are already experiencing pain and may have had found previous treatment to be painful. We understand the importance of open dialogue during our treatments along with taking a conservative approach to treating these sensitive areas. Our treatments are described as gentle, effective, and often enjoyable. Working with a trained Registered Massage Therapist with additional training in TMJ massage offers a deeper understanding of the complexity of the TMJ as well as additional treatment techniques to comfortably address the area.

Did you know?  Many of our Registered Massage Therapists have additional training for TMJ specific treatments. Our Registered Acupuncturists also provide symptom relief for TMJ pain, facial pain, ear aches, headaches/migraines, and tinnitus.