Jaw Pain

Pain and clicking in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or jaw is fairly common.

It can lead to difficulty eating and talking and at worst locking of the jaw. There are many causes, such as imbalances and stresses through the facial bones, teeth and muscles. This may be a result of a tooth extraction or from teeth grinding at night. Also problems with the neck and back can cause the lower part of the jaw to hang differently from the skull leading muscles to tighten as it struggles to cope.

What does treatment involve?

Symptomatic relief will be gained from gently coercing joint movement and releasing the small yet powerful muscles which control the joint. Sometimes treatment will involve internal work on the muscles of the jaw. We may liaise with your dentist or consultant if dual management is needed.

Read the evidence on jaw pain and manual therapy.