Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a surprisingly common condition. Roughly 10 million Americans deal with this malady that causes jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing.
Many people seek relief through medication or dental treatments, and these do have their place. But did you know that massage therapy also offers a natural and effective way to alleviate TMJ symptoms?
In this post, we’ll explore how massage for TMJ can be an excellent addition to your care regimen. Keep reading below!
What Is TMJ?
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jawbone to the skull. This joint plays a crucial role in talking, chewing, and other jaw movements. When the joint becomes irritated or inflamed, it can lead to TMJ disorder (TMD), which is characterized by:
- Jaw pain and tenderness
- Clicking or popping sounds when opening the mouth
- Headaches or ear pain
- Difficulty chewing or locking of the jaw
TMJ disorder can result from various factors, including stress, teeth grinding (bruxism), poor posture, or trauma to the jaw. If left untreated, TMD can cause chronic pain and discomfort.
Can Massage Help TMJ Pain?
Yes! Massage therapy can significantly reduce TMJ pain by relaxing the muscles around the jaw, improving blood circulation, and promoting overall relaxation.
Regular massage can help to:
- Reduce muscle tension: TMJ pain is often linked to tight jaw and neck muscles. Massage helps release tension and ease discomfort.
- Improve circulation: Better blood flow to the jaw area enhances healing and reduces inflammation.
- Lower stress levels: Stress is a major contributor to TMJ pain, and massage naturally calms the nervous system.
- Increase jaw mobility: Gentle massage techniques can improve range of motion and reduce stiffness in the jaw.
The Best Types of Massage for TMJ
Several massage techniques can effectively target TMJ pain and promote jaw relaxation.
1. Trigger Point Massage
This technique focuses on releasing knots and tension points in the jaw, neck, and shoulders. A massage therapist applies firm pressure to specific areas to relieve muscle tightness and discomfort.
2. Intraoral Massage
Performed by a trained professional, intraoral massage involves working on the muscles inside the mouth. This technique directly targets the masseter and pterygoid muscles, which are often tense in TMJ sufferers.
3. Myofascial Release
This gentle yet effective approach works on the connective tissues surrounding the jaw. By stretching and releasing tension in the fascia, myofascial release helps improve mobility and reduce pain.
4. Swedish Massage for Stress Reduction
Since stress can exacerbate TMJ symptoms, a full-body Swedish massage can also be beneficial. This relaxing technique calms the nervous system and reduces muscle tension throughout the body, including the jaw.
Pain Relief Through Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is a powerful, all-natural way to alleviate TMJ pain and improve jaw function. By reducing muscle tension and lowering stress, massage provides lasting relief for those struggling with TMJ disorder.
If you suffer from TMJ pain, consider incorporating regular massage into your wellness routine to experience its full benefits. You’ll be glad you did!
Do you have questions about massage for TMJ or other conditions? Give us a call at 970-748-1600 or click here to book your next massage online.