Temporal Mandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ)
What is TMJ and what are the symptoms
The term TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint which connects the jaw to the skull, this joint enables the mouth to open and close, and just like other joints in the body it can get tight resulting in limited movement causing pain and imbalance. When there is an imbalance you may experience the following symptoms:
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Pain in or around the jaw joints
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Clicking or popping in the jaw (when opening and closing the mouth)
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Muscle spasms
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Headaches
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Facial pain especially around the temples
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Pain or difficulty opening and closing the mouth
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Neck and shoulder pain and/or stiffness
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Pain or discomfort when chewing
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Pain behind the eyes
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Earache
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Tinnitus
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Dizziness and/or nausea
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People who have bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching their jaw)
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Numbness or pins and needles in their hands, especially the little finger side
How TMJ massage helps
TMJ release treatment targets pain and tension in the jaw, neck and head using a combination of manual therapy, trigger point therapy, fascial release and heat to regain balance within the joint, helping ease symptoms caused by tightness in the TMJ.