What is TMJ dysfunction?
Temporomandibular joint dysfunction refers to disorders of the jaw joints and the accompanying symptoms: these conditions and imbalances directly impact (or are caused by) the surrounding muscles, ligaments, and nerves.
No single cause has been identified. Pain and dysfunction can result from: imbalanced occlusion, dental care intrusion, genetics, chronic diseases (fibromyalgia, arthritis, etc.), physical trauma or injury, stress, anxiety, postural imbalances, habitual static or dynamic movement patterns, and the physiological stresses of gravity. More often than not multiple factors contribute to this type of pain.
Temporomandibular Joints
We have two temporomandibular joints, one on each side of the jaw, that collectively join the mandible bone to the skull. These are complex, double synovial, pressure bearing joints that cannot act independently of one another. Movement is determined by the shape of the bones, the surrounding muscles and ligaments, as well as occlusion (coming into contact) of the teeth. Chewing (mastication) and speech are two of the main functions of the TMJs.
Pain & Dysfunction
The muscles and ligaments surrounding the TMJs coordinate complex motions along all planes of movement. In order to move effectively, the muscles on both sides of the jaw perform multiple actions individually and simultaneously. When these joints are aligned properly, smooth movements can occur; misalignment results in asynchronicity and numerous successive issues. Restriction on one side can lead to hypermobility on the other. Compensation patterns lead to recruitment of muscles of the neck, face, and even the tongue, to assist in moving the TMJs, which can further contribute to misalignment, fatigue, joint pressure, pain, and many other symptoms (shown below). Over time, this pain can also generate mental stress and tension that may trigger clenching or grinding which then increases and prolongs dysfunction within the TMJs.
Signs & Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of TMJ dysfunction are listed below and can present in many surprising ways.
What can be done?
Massage therapy has been shown to be a highly effective treatment. While your doctor or dentist may recommend an oral appliance or mouthguard, physical therapy, ice and heat packs, and diet changes to rest jaw muscles — hands-on, manual techniques can help to reduce pain and dysfunction by:
-addressing posture and habitual compensation patterns
-relaxing and lengthening overworked, restricted musculature
-reducing stress and anxiety
-reducing muscular tension
-increasing blood flow
-realigning joint structures to reduce pressure and inflammation
and more!
*If you have a diagnosed TMJ disorder, check with your dentist or doctor to see if massage therapy is the right pain relief tool for you. This information is not intended to diagnose health problems or to take the place of specific medical advice or care you receive from your physician or other health care professional. If you have persistent health problems, or if you have additional questions, please consult with your doctor.*
TMJ Pain & Dysfunction Relief appointments
Who is this session for, and what happens during the appointment?
This session is for everyone!
If you have a diagnosed TMJ disorder, check with your doctor or dentist to see if this work will help your condition (the answer is probably yes!)
If you have one or more of the signs & symptoms pictured above, this work is for you.
Even if you do not normally have the symptoms listed above, attention to the neck, jaw, face and scalp is beneficial in many ways! Try this session or contact Leah with any questions.
This appointment includes:
A written and verbal intake, as well as visual assessment.
A tactile assessment using palpation, passive range of motion, and active stretch techniques.
Manual techniques to realign imbalances, tonify weak muscles, and lengthen and relax tight, adhered tissues.
These include mechanorecepter, neuroreceptor and trigger point techniques, myofascial release, neuromuscular stimulation/relaxation, as well as intra-oral work to address tissues around the TMJs not accessible from outside the jaw.
Soft tissues of the upper back, chest, neck, scalp, jaw, and face will be addressed specifically for your individual needs, based on the assessments conducted and with continued feedback during the session.
At-home work is incredibly important — resources and manual self-techniques for you to try on your own will be available.
Don’t wait any longer to address your pain.
Book your TMJ: Pain & Dysfunction Relief session today
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© 2025 Leah P Bailey, LMT
Cancellation Policy: You can easily make adjustments to your scheduled appointment online up to 24 hours in advance. Fees incurred for last minute cancellation.
