Osteopathy

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Jaw Pain

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is where the jaw joins the skull. It is among some of the most frequently used joints in the body, allowing us to talk, chew, yawn, swallow and sneeze. The TMJ is located on each side of the skull.

Any dysfunction related to the TMJ is the cause of widespread and often varied symptoms throughout the head and neck region.

People with jaw problems may experience the following symptoms:

• Jaw clicking on opening and closing

• Early morning jaw pain

• Persistent headaches or migraines

• Ear symptoms (ear pain, ringing in the ears, hearing loss, popping of the ear)

• Sinusitis

• Locking of the jaw

• Pain with eating/yawning

• Stress

• Sensitive teeth

• Dizziness

Jaw dysfunction can be caused by:

• Injuries like a fall or hit directly to the jaw

• Grinding of the teeth

• Major dental work or surgery

• Habits like chewing gum on one side of the mouth and eating hard foods

• Alterations in posture which cause tightness through the jaw

• Stress, which can cause muscle spasms and tightness

Osteopathic Treatment

Goals:

To reduce tension in the neck muscles and muscles surrounding the jaw and to improve movement of the joints in the neck and jaw.

Manual Treatment:

Soft tissue treatment as well as techniques performed within the mouth can make a significant difference to the jaw symptoms. This makes the jaw feel more even, and the neck more aligned.

Management:

A good exercise program and awareness of poor postural habits can help prevent the recurrence of jaw problems.

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