Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ)

Dysfunctions of the jaw are quite common in the world today. Many people have grinding or clenching problems which lead to pain and stiffness in the jaw and face. Others suffer from painful clicking with movement or an inability to open/close the mouth comfortably. This is where massage therapy can help.

The goal of jaw massage is to pinpoint the areas that are causing discomfort or decreased movement, to treat them at their source.  Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) work inside the mouth and cheek (intra-orally) to decrease muscle tone that causes pain. They also manipulate the joint to promote smooth, pain free range of motion.

 

Since the areas that are being treated during a jaw massage are inside the mouth, the therapist wears gloves for this portion of the treatment.  Massage for the relief of jaw pain can also include treating muscles in the neck, face and temple.

 

These are some examples of issues that have been successfully treated in the past with jaw massage:

• pain from grinding/clenching
• trouble opening/closing the mouth
• clicking/popping when opening or closing
• headaches
• pain in the teeth and gums
• tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• ear aches