Relieving TMJ Dysfunction and Pain with Massage Therapy

TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint which connects the lower jaw to the skull on either side. These are the joints which are used while chewing, talking, swallowing etc. In fact, they are among the most complex joints in the body.

However, at times, the temporomandibular joint can suffer from temporomandibular disorder—TMD. There are various symptoms of TMJ disorder, including teeth grinding, difficulty in opening the mouth and jaw pain.

There are various ways to treat TMJ disorder, such as nightguards, orthodontics and medications. However, one effective way to improve TMJ symptoms is with massage in Jacksonville, Florida; this can help in relaxing the jaw, increasing flexibility and reducing the pain and discomfort associated with this condition.

Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you might be suffering from temporomandibular joint disorder:

1. A sore jaw or discomfort in the jaw.
2. Headache.
3. Pain in the face, shoulder, neck and upper back. Pain behind the eyes.
4. Pain in the ear, ringing in the ear, hearing loss.
5. Clicking/popping sensation when you open and close the jaw.
6. Locking of the jaw, in which you can't move the jaw too much.
7. Pain while chewing food.
8. Your upper and lower teeth might not fit together.

Causes of TMJ Disorder

TMJ disorder might be caused by a combination of factors.

1. Injury: If you've had a fall or an accident in which you hurt your jaw, this might lead into TMJ disorder. Even whiplash can contribute to TMJ disorder
   
2. Bruxism: When you clench your jaw or grind your teeth, especially in your sleep, this can lead into TMJ disorder.
   
3. Joint Issues: When your joints are affected by arthritis, erosion or displacement, this can lead into TMJ disorder.
   
4. Stress: When you're stressed out, all your muscles are likely to be tighter, including the ones in your face and jaw. This can contribute to TMJ disorder
   
5. Bad Posture: When you're constantly looking down at a computer screen, this can strain your neck, upper back and even your facial muscles, contributing to TMJ disorder.

Treating TMJ Disorder With Massage Therapy

There are many ways of treating TMJ disorder, such as orthodontics and medication. But if you're interested in a natural, non-invasive method which also has the benefit of making you feel relaxed overall, then you can try massage in Jacksonville, Florida.
According to a study conducted in 2007 and another, more recent one, conducted in 2023, "western massage…can improve jaw range of motion, alleviate the intensity and reduce the frequency of TMJ-related pain without surgical or pharmacological intervention."

Here are some of the benefits of treating TMJ disorder with massage therapy:

1. Helps With Muscle Spasms: If your TMJ disorder is caused by muscle spasms, then be sure to do a search for "massage near me." Massage therapy can help to ease spasms, thus leading into less jaw pain, clicking etc.
2. Reduces Tension: It's quite possible that tension in your back, neck and shoulders is contributing to the intensity of your TMJ symptoms. Massage therapy can help to relax these areas of the body and consequently relax your jaw as well. You'll end up feeling a lot better overall and your jaw movement is also likely to improve.
3. Improves Blood Circulation: Massage generally improves your blood circulation as well. This can help to flush out any toxins that your body might be storing, especially in the jaw area. Plus, improved blood circulation leads to a decrease in pain and a greater feeling of wellbeing.
4. Breaks Down Scar Tissue: Sometimes, when you have an injury, scar tissue develops within the body. This is natural but can get in the way of normal movements. Massage increases your body temperature, improves blood flow and realigns collagen fibers, all of which can help break down scar tissue and improve TMJ disorder.
5. Reduces Fatigue and Stiffness: Many people opt for massage therapy when they are experiencing fatigue and stiffness. You may not realize it but your fatigue/stiffness may be contributing to an increase in TMJ symptoms. By releasing fatigue and stiffness, your TMJ symptoms will decrease as well.
6. Increases Range of Motion: One of the main symptoms of TMJ disorder is that you don't have the full range of motion in your jaw. Your jaw might only open halfway, and this gets in the way of chewing, talking etc. Massage therapy can relax your muscles and increase your range of motion.
7. Reduces Pain: If you're experiencing pain in the jaw due to your TMJ disorder, then a therapeutic massage can help. Massage therapy usually reduces body pain and discomfort.

Seeking  Massage Therapy in Jacksonville, Florida

If you are suffering from TMJ disorder in Jacksonville, Florida it makes sense to search for "massage near me." Massage can reduce pain and stiffness, increase your range of motion, break down scar tissue and reduce muscle spasms. This is a natural, effective method that will help to reduce all your TMJ symptoms and give you the relief you need. Contact us to learn more about using massage therapy to improve your TMJ symptoms.


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We are pleased to serve the following Florida communities with massage therapy, chiropractic, organic skincare, acupuncture, red light therapy and more: Jacksonville, Orange Park, Fleming Island, Mandarin, Jacksonville Beach, Nocatee, St Johns, Ponte Vedra and more

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