Overview Causes Symptoms Treatment
What is temporomandibular disorder (TMD)-temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain?
TMD (Temporomandibular Disorder), often referred to as TMJ pain (after the temporomandibular joint), is a condition that causes pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles.
Common Related Conditions
Causes of temporomandibular disorder (TMD)-temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain
TMD (Temporomandibular Disorder) or TMJ pain can arise from a variety of factors involving the jaw joint, muscles, and surrounding structures. One of the most common causes is jaw clenching or teeth grinding (bruxing), often triggered by stress or anxiety, which places continuous pressure on the temporomandibular joints and surrounding muscles. Jaw misalignment or bite problems (malocclusion) can also lead to uneven stress on the joint, causing pain and inflammation over time.
Trauma or injury to the jaw, face, or neck — such as from an accident, sports injury, or whiplash— may damage the joint or strain nearby ligaments and muscles. In some cases, degenerative conditions like arthritis can cause the joint’s cartilage to wear down, leading to stiffness and pain. Additionally, muscle tension, myofascial trigger points, and scar tissue or adhesions from prior surgeries or dental work may restrict movement and contribute to chronic discomfort.
Lifestyle and postural factors also play a major role. Poor posture, particularly forward head posture from prolonged computer or phone use, can place strain on the neck and jaw muscles. Jobs and professions that require prolonged forward head postures can cause or contribute to TMJ disorders. Emotional stress often intensifies symptoms by increasing muscle tightness around the face and jaw. These combined factors can lead to ongoing pain, limited motion, and difficulty with basic activities like chewing, speaking, or yawning.
Symptoms of temporomandibular disorder (TMD)-temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw, face, or around the ear
- Difficulty or discomfort when opening or closing the mouth
- Jaw stiffness or limited range of motion
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds in the jaw joint
- Locking of the jaw (unable to open or close fully)
- Headaches or migraines, often in the temples
- Ear pain or a feeling of fullness in the ears
- Neck and shoulder pain or muscle tension
- Tooth pain without a dental cause
- Facial swelling or tenderness
- Pain that worsens with chewing, speaking, or yawning
- Sensitivity to touch around the jaw and face
Treatment for temporomandibular disorder (TMD)-temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain
Our treatment of TMJ pain requires no surgery or medications. As the only bilateral joint in the area, the TMJ joints must exist on a stable, symmetrical foundation.
Our eyes try to stay level as we move through life for maximum stability. When the foundation of the head is not level, we compensate by tightening neck muscles on one side, front, or back. Over time, these actions can cause spasm, then inflammation, leading to adhesions in the muscles and joints of the neck or shoulders. The resulting asymmetry puts undue stress on the TMJ joints, causing TMJ pain or dysfunction.
Our best results come when we address the full body, from the feet through the pelvis and into the shoulders and neck, before and while treating the TM joints. When we do, pain decreases dramatically and function quickly returns.
Other Treatment Options (Surgery Drugs)
Dentists often treat the loss of vertical dimension within the TM joint by ‘equilibrating’ the patient’s teeth. By grinding down teeth on one or both sides or adding material to make the teeth taller, they feel they can increase the VDO. The intent is to allow the jaw to open and close without putting excess pressure on the TM joint.
While equilibrating, the patient is lying back in a chair, in a position s/he rarely takes in life. Dentists rarely check the symmetry of pelvic bones and cranial structures that support the head. Thus, they may adjust occlusion based on asymmetrical positions and lower body support. For this reason, patients often return to recalibrate the TM joint, but still on an asymmetrical foundation.
Per the TMJ Association, “Surgical treatments are controversial, often irreversible, and should be avoided where possible,” and notes: There have been no long-term clinical trials to study the safety and effectiveness of surgical treatments for TMJ disorders.
Condition Specific Disclaimer:
Clear Passage® Therapy is a non-surgical, manual physical therapy designed to address adhesions and restricted soft tissue mobility. While most patients report relief from jaw pain, facial tension, and easier jaw movements, results vary by individual.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only. We encourage every patient to consult his/her physician.
Testimonials:
To read Clear Passage® Therapy patient success stories, please visit our Testimonials page.
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