TMJ Help Program

Pain in the jaw joint, known as TMJ, is caused by constant grinding of teeth due to a stressful lifestyle. Its symptoms are a great many but usually include; painful movement of the jaw, clicking sounds, headaches and/or migraines. Symptoms are usually the worst during night. This is because of a the unconscious acts of grinding teeth and jaw clenching that occur during sleep and may result in sleep disturbances. An example is Bruxism, which is the clenching of the jaws during sleep. This affects the muscles of the jaw by forcing them into a state of tension all through the night. The result is the symptoms of TMJ presenting later on.

A very satisfying approach to manage TMJ symptoms is massage therapy. By using massage therapy on the affected areas of the jaw, temples, scalp, head, shoulders, neck and back, the muscles become relaxed and the state of tension is relieved. The patient’s stress levels are also reduced. This type of massage therapy is best applied to a patient in a seated position. It is an efficient and effective way to alleviate TMJ symptoms. Pressure should be applied by the tips of the fingers to areas of pain and soreness. The jaw joint can then by stretched for a few moments by opening the mouth and massaging of the affected area then ensues for a few more moments.

Since stress is an important underlying cause of TMJ, massage therapy with the aim of relieving stress can also be a very effective remedy. A chair massage once a week should produce great results by reducing stress and tension levels and therefore eliminating the root cause.

A type of massage known as “on-site” massage can be used to relieve stress right in the middle of stressful conditions, such as the office. It is easy and can be done without the help of a masseur or masseuse.

Other remedies that can be used together with massage therapy to produce better overall results is dietary modification. TMJ patients should eat softer foods and avoid chewy or hard foods. Making a conscious effort to avoid stressful situations and excessive jaw clenching is also advisable. Rubbing the affected area with a warm towel a couple of times a day may provide relief of some of the symptoms. While these treatments appear simple, if regularly applied, they will produce fantastic results.