Jaw Pain + TMJ Dysfunction
Jaw Pain
Jaw pain, also known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain, refers to discomfort experienced in the jaw area, which can result from various factors including clenching, bruxism, or teeth grinding. These involuntary habits often occur during stressful situations or while sleeping, leading to excessive pressure on the jaw muscles and the TMJ, which connects the jaw to the skull. The repetitive strain can cause inflammation, tenderness, and joint pain, making it difficult to eat, speak, or perform everyday activities. Hands on Osteopathic treatment can be aimed towards the different muscles and joints involved in the jaws movement to help improve range of motion, prevent catching or clicking as well as releasing tension which may be related to neck pain or headaches.
TMJ Dysfunction.
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction involves the disturbance of the normal functioning of the TMJ, which is the joint connecting the jawbone to the skull. At the heart of this joint is an articular disc that acts as a cushion between the bones, facilitating smooth movement during jaw activities such as chewing and speaking. In cases of dysfunction, this disc can become displaced or damaged, leading to pain, limited movement, and clicking sounds. Commonly treated muscles in relation to TMJ dysfunction include the masseter, which is responsible for closing the jaw, and the temporalis, which assists in moving the jaw laterally. Additionally, muscles such as the digastric and suprahyoid can contribute to the complex network of tension around the jaw, resulting in discomfort and misalignment. Addressing these muscular tensions and improving the function of the TMJ is crucial in alleviating symptoms of dysfunction and restoring normal movement.
Should I See an Osteopath for my Jaw Pain?
Osteopaths are well trained to assess and treat jaw pain. It’s a fairly commonly seen issue as it tends to relate to other conditions such as neck pain and headaches. Pain in the jaw however, can exist on its own as a result of clenching, grinding, muscular tension or local trauma. If you have jaw pain and would like to know if Osteopathy is for you, head to my contact page to ask any questions or to my booking page to make an appointment.