Understanding TMJ & Jaw Pain
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the jaw to the skull and is involved in chewing, speaking and opening the mouth. Problems affecting the joint or surrounding muscles are often referred to as temporomandibular disorders (TMD).
Symptoms may be influenced by muscle tension, clenching or grinding, joint irritation, posture, and tension in the neck and surrounding tissues.
Common symptoms include:
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Jaw pain or tenderness
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Clicking or popping
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Jaw stiffness
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Difficulty or discomfort opening the mouth
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Clenching or grinding
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Facial or temple tension
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Headaches associated with jaw tension
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Neck tension
How Osteopathy May Help with TMJ & Jaw Pain
Treatment is individualized based on your symptoms and assessment. Rather than focusing only on the jaw, we may assess the TMJ, muscles of the face and jaw, neck, upper back and other related structures.
Manual techniques may be used to help:
Reduce muscle tension
Work with tight or sensitive muscles around the jaw, face and neck.
Improve jaw mobility
Address restrictions that may affect comfortable opening and movement of the jaw.
Address neck and postural factors
Assess areas that may contribute to tension around the jaw.
Support more comfortable movement
Help improve overall function of the jaw and surrounding tissues.
What to Expect During Your TMJ Treatment
Your first appointment begins with a discussion of your symptoms, including jaw pain, clicking, clenching, headaches and any factors that make your symptoms better or worse.
We then assess jaw movement, muscle tension and relevant areas such as the neck and upper body.
Treatment is adapted to your individual findings and may include gentle manual techniques, soft-tissue work, joint techniques and advice or exercises when appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can osteopathy help with jaw clicking?
Jaw clicking can have different causes. We assess jaw movement and surrounding structures to determine whether manual treatment may be appropriate for your situation.
Do you treat the jaw from inside the mouth?
Intraoral techniques may be used when appropriate and only with your informed consent. External techniques can also be used to work with the jaw and surrounding muscles.
Can TMJ problems contribute to headaches?
Jaw clenching and tension in the muscles around the jaw and temples may be associated with some headaches. Your assessment helps determine which factors may be relevant.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies depending on your symptoms, how long they have been present and how your body responds to treatment. We reassess your progress and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
Visit Our Osteopathy Clinic in Etobicoke
OsteopathyNearMe
3269 Bloor St W
Etobicoke, ON M8X 1E2
Phone: +1 416-258-1009
email: osteopathynearme@gmail.com
Conveniently located on Bloor Street West in Etobicoke, near Islington and Bloor.