TMJ & Jaw Pain Treatment in Wellington
Effective Relief for TMJ & Jaw Pain
Jaw pain, often associated with TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction, can make daily activities uncomfortable and challenging. At City Osteopaths in Wellington, we provide holistic treatments aimed at relieving TMJ dysfunction and jaw pain, clicking and locking, restoring comfort, and improving jaw function. Our team specialises in addressing these conditions through targeted osteopathic care.
Understanding TMJ Dysfunction and Common Symptoms
TMJ dysfunction occurs when the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jaw to the skull, doesn’t function properly. This can lead to various symptoms, including:
Aching Jaw Pain
Constant pain or tenderness in the jaw, which may worsen with movement.
Ear and Jaw Pain
Discomfort that radiates from the jaw to the ear area, causing earaches.
Jaw Pain and Headache
Persistent jaw tension can lead to headaches, often felt around the temples or sides of the head.
Jaw Clicking
Jaw clicking occurs when the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) doesn’t move smoothly, often due to misalignment, muscle tension, TMJ disc irritation or inflammation. It may be painless or accompanied by discomfort and is commonly noticed during activities like chewing, talking, or yawning.
Jaw Locking
Jaw locking happens when the jaw becomes temporarily stuck in an open or closed position, making it difficult to move. This can result from TMJ dysfunction, joint dislocation, TMJ disc compromise or issues with the muscles controlling the jaw. It often requires gentle manipulation or professional care to resolve.
Our osteopaths focus on treating both the symptoms and the root causes of TMJ dysfunction, helping to alleviate these painful effects and improve overall jaw function.
Causes of TMJ Dysfunction and Jaw Pain
Several factors can contribute to TMJ dysfunction and jaw pain, clicking and locking including:
Teeth Grinding and Clenching: Excessive grinding or clenching can strain the jaw muscles and lead to dysfunction.
Injury or Trauma: An impact to the jaw area or temporal bone at the side of the head, such as during sports or accidents, can disrupt the joint’s function.
Poor Posture: Poor posture, particularly in the neck and upper back, may contribute to jaw misalignment and tension.
Stress: High-stress levels often lead to muscle tension, which can exacerbate jaw pain and TMJ symptoms.
Understanding these causes helps our team at City Osteopaths develop a personalised treatment approach that addresses both immediate pain relief and long-term management.
Osteopathic Benefits for TMJ and Jaw Pain Relief
Osteopathy offers a comprehensive approach to managing TMJ dysfunction and jaw pain, clicking and locking. Some of the primary benefits include:
Pain Relief
Osteopathic techniques help to release muscle tension and reduce pain around the jaw and ear.
Improved Jaw Mobility
Treatment enhances jaw alignment and function, allowing for easier movement without discomfort.
Targeted, Personalised Care
Each treatment plan is customised to your specific symptoms, causative factors and lifestyle needs.
Our TMJ and Jaw Pain Resources / Articles
Why City Osteopaths in Wellington?
City Osteopaths is dedicated to providing effective care for those experiencing TMJ dysfunction and jaw pain in Wellington. Here’s why clients choose us:
✓ Customised Care
✓ Experienced Practitioners
✓ Convenient Central Location
What is TMJ dysfunction?
TMJ dysfunction refers to issues with the temporomandibular joint, which can cause pain, limited movement, and symptoms like earaches and headaches.
Can osteopathy help with TMJ symptoms?
Yes, osteopathy offers targeted treatments to relieve tension and improve function in the jaw, reducing TMJ symptoms effectively.
How quickly can I see improvement?
Many clients experience relief within a few sessions, though the duration of treatment depends on the severity and cause of the dysfunction.
Visit Us
Convenient locations in Wellington