Jaw Pain
The temporomandiular joint (TMJ) connects the lower jaw called the mandible to the temporal bone at the side of the head, situated just in front of your ears. The TMJ joint is one of the most frequently used joints in the body, moving up to 2,000 times every day. It is used when you talk, chew and also in the action of swallowing. Muscles that attach and surround the jaw joint control its position and movement.
Jaw pain (TMJ Syndrome) is a very common symptom affecting people of all ages, although people under 40 are more susceptible and it occurs more frequently in women.
What are the Causes of TMJ Syndrome?
• Stress and anxiety, which can cause facial and jaw muscle tension.
• Grinding your teeth (bruxism), eating hard or chewy foods, and nail biting.
• Trauma to the jaw or head ie blow to the head, dislocation or whiplash;
overstretching or prolonged opening of the jaw during dental work or surgery.
As many as 40% of whiplash victims can develop TMJ syndrome.
• Poorly fitted dentures or orthodontic treatment, such as braces and the use
of headgear.
• A "bad bite" (malocclusion), as a result from overcrowding or missing teeth,
teeth that are not properly aligned, or back teeth that are too short can also
lead to jaw pain.
• Degenerative joint disease, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis(click
here to view article on Arthritis)
Signs and symptoms
• Headaches or migraines
• Earaches, stuffiness, or ringing in the ears
• Pain in sinus areas or behind eyes
• Pain or soreness in and around the jaw joints
• Limited movement or locking of the jaw
• Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw joints
• Neck, shoulder pain
• Facial pain
• Unexplained loosening of teeth
What should you do if you suspect TMJ Syndrome?
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms relating to TMJ disorders, your local osteopath may be of help. In the majority of cases TMJ pain is caused by disorders of the muscles, and the pain can be controlled or the TMJ problem can be corrected with osteopathic treatment.
To locate an osteopath in your area click on the link below:
Jaw Pain
Jaw pain (TMJ Syndrome) is a very common symptom affecting people of all ages, although people under 40 are more susceptible and it occurs more frequently in women.
What are the Causes of TMJ Syndrome?
• Stress and anxiety, which can cause facial and jaw muscle tension.
• Grinding your teeth (bruxism), eating hard or chewy foods, and nail biting.
• Trauma to the jaw or head ie blow to the head, dislocation or whiplash;
overstretching or prolonged opening of the jaw during dental work or surgery.
As many as 40% of whiplash victims can develop TMJ syndrome.
• Poorly fitted dentures or orthodontic treatment, such as braces and the use
of headgear.
• A "bad bite" (malocclusion), as a result from overcrowding or missing teeth,
teeth that are not properly aligned, or back teeth that are too short can also
lead to jaw pain.
• Degenerative joint disease, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis(click
here to view article on Arthritis)
Signs and symptoms
• Headaches or migraines
• Earaches, stuffiness, or ringing in the ears
• Pain in sinus areas or behind eyes
• Pain or soreness in and around the jaw joints
• Limited movement or locking of the jaw
• Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw joints
• Neck, shoulder pain
• Facial pain
• Unexplained loosening of teeth
What should you do if you suspect TMJ Syndrome?
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms relating to TMJ disorders, your local osteopath may be of help. In the majority of cases TMJ pain is caused by disorders of the muscles, and the pain can be controlled or the TMJ problem can be corrected with osteopathic treatment.
To locate an osteopath in your area click on the link below:
Jaw Pain
