Temperomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder

 The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull and plays a vital role in speaking, chewing, and facial movement. TMJ dysfunction occurs when there’s pain, imbalance, or restriction in this joint or its surrounding muscles. This condition can lead to jaw discomfort, headaches, neck tension, and even ear-related symptoms. Osteopathy offers a gentle, targeted approach to managing TMJ dysfunction by addressing both local and contributing musculoskeletal factors.

• Jaw Pain or Tightness – Particularly around the joint, cheeks, or temples
• Clicking or Popping – With jaw movement, often felt or heard during chewing or speaking
• Restricted Jaw Movement – Difficulty opening the mouth fully or uneven jaw motion
• Headaches – Especially around the temples or behind the eyes
• Neck and Shoulder Tension – Often due to compensatory muscle patterns
• Ear Symptoms – Such as a feeling of fullness, tinnitus, or referred pain
   

• Teeth Clenching or Grinding (Bruxism) – Often stress-related and common during sleep
• Poor Posture – Forward head posture and cervical dysfunction can impact jaw mechanics
• Jaw Trauma or Dental Work – Can disrupt TMJ alignment or irritate surrounding tissues
• Muscle Imbalance – Involving the jaw, neck, and upper back
• Habitual Movements – Like nail biting or chewing gum excessively
   

Osteopaths assess the jaw in the context of the entire body, recognising that TMJ dysfunction often involves the neck, head, and postural system. Treatment is tailored to relieve pain, restore normal jaw movement, and reduce contributing strain. Techniques may include:

• Soft Tissue Therapy – To release tension in the jaw, neck, and facial muscles
• Intraoral Techniques – Gentle internal treatment of specific jaw muscles (when appropriate) 
• Cervical and Thoracic Mobilisation – To improve head and neck mechanics
• Postural Correction – Addressing upper body and head positioning
• Stress Management Advice – As bruxism and jaw tension are often linked to stress
• Home Exercises and Jaw Mobility Techniques – To support recovery and prevent recurrence
   

• Avoid Hard or Chewy Foods – To reduce strain on the jaw joint
• Apply Warm Compresses – To relax tight muscles around the jaw and neck
• Practice Jaw Relaxation Techniques – Gentle stretches and breathing can help
• Monitor Posture – Especially when working at a desk or using screens
• Use a Night Guard (if recommended) – To protect the joint from grinding during sleep
   

If you're experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or clicking in your jaw, osteopathic treatment can help restore balance to the TMJ and surrounding structures, improving comfort and function.