Massage Therapy for TMJ

The Temporomandibular joint (TMJ), or the jaw, is the hardest working joint in the body. We use it to speak, make facial expressions, chew, and swallow. TMJ disorders (TMJD) may cause clicking or popping in the jaw joints, pain in and around the jaw joints, migraines/headaches, earaches, ringing in the ears, and locking or limited opening of the mouth. These disorders may be caused by jaw injury, poor posture, clenching/grinding teeth, arthritis, or displaced jaw joints.

The TMJ is supported and suspended by soft tissue, making intra-oral massage an effective treatment option for TMJD. Your TMJ massage appointment will start with your therapist asking questions about the history and symptoms of your TMJD and performing a few assessments. Treatment includes work on the neck and muscles surrounding the jaw, as well as intra-oral muscles. It is not painful and many people experience immediate relief. Your therapist may give you exercises to continue with at home.