Face & Jaw Tension

The Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the most used joint in the body. It affects your ability to talk, chew, and swallow.

Osteopathic treatment can be highly beneficial for relieving face and jaw tension by addressing the underlying musculoskeletal imbalances and tension patterns in the craniofacial region. Conditions such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, teeth grinding (bruxism), or stress-related clenching often cause significant discomfort and restricted movement in the jaw, as well as referred pain in the head, neck, and shoulders. Specialized treatment for these areas is required to prevent long term damage to the TMJ joints and teeth surfaces.

Our hands-on techniques, including soft tissue manipulation and cranial osteopathy, release tension in the jaw ligaments, improve joint mobility, and restore proper alignment of the jaw and surrounding structures. The osteopathic approach also enhances blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, promoting homeostasis, and reducing inflammation in the affected areas.

In some cases, or by request, intra-oral techniques can be used to release accessible ligaments and muscles in the mouth.

The TMJ attaches the lower part of your jaw to your skull. It is responsible for all the movements of the jaw, including the opening and closing of the mouth. Osteopathy can help address the symptoms of TMJ by assessing and treating movement restrictions of the jaw and the tension of the surrounding muscles. 

For several years, Michelle has been a go practitioner for progressive dentists, orthodontist, speech therapists, lactation consultants, and orofacial myofunctional therapists in BC who are leading the way in progressive solutions for their patients.

Integration of any ongoing dental work with the rest of the body is essential for these interventions to be successful. This is an emerging field that is very difficult for people to navigate and requires whole person treatment solutions.

Osteopathic care treats the whole person.

For example, regardless if you have sleep apnea, a tmj issue, or restricted tongue and airway, these concerns are physically treated in relationship to the inner workings of your whole body. This integrative approach is key to making lasting change at the head, neck, and upper chest.

Beyond addressing the physical symptoms, osteopathic care takes a holistic view by exploring contributing factors such as posture, stress, and habits like poor ergonomics or overuse of certain muscles.

For instance, forward head posture or tension in the upper cervical spine can exacerbate jaw tension and dysfunction. By treating the interconnected structures of the body and offering practical advice on posture and stress management, we help address the root causes of face and jaw tension.

Patients often experience improved jaw function, reduced pain, and enhanced overall well-being following osteopathic care, making it a valuable option for those dealing with chronic or acute problems at the jaw and face.

Please get in touch if you need help with your face and jaw tension.