What is TMJ and What to do When it Hurts

James Fowler Physical TherapyBack & Neck, Health & Wellness, Massage Therapy, Pain & Pain ManagementLeave a Comment

Author: Adrianna Aguilar

It is estimated that TMJ Disorders affect over 10 million Americans, yet there is still a great deal to learn about TMJ, about its surrounding disorders and about its origins. In recent years, The US Department of Health of Services discovered that “the condition was more common in women than in men.” (1) With so little known and so much more to be discovered in regards to TMJ, how can those of us affected combat its negative effects and pain?

TMJ itself stands for temporomandibular joint and refers to the jaw joint.

(2) Temporomandibular joint  and Masseter

Connecting the lower jaw and the bone to the side of the skull, it is one of the more complex joints in the body.  With the help of the masseter muscle, the TMJ allows for movement both up and down as well as side to side. Both the TMJ and masseter make for an extraordinary pair with the masseter ranking as one of the strongest muscles in the body. Achiness, headaches, migraine, or throbbing in and around your ear could mean that the TMJ is inflamed and/or the masseter muscle is tense. (3, 4) As humans, we need to eat, which means we call on this mighty duo to get us through. When both are not working as efficiently and as painless as possible, our team at JFPT is ready to assist and offer our expertise and skill. There are also ways for you yourself to self soothe TMJ pain at home. Please make sure to check in with a Physical Therapist or Massage Therapist if you are suffering from TMJ symptoms and before proceeding with self-massage techniques.

(4) Note where the “Self Massage Notch” is.

Massaging the Masseter

    1. The masseter muscle extends from below the cheekbone on the side of the face as seen above. The bottom of the masseter attaches to the side of the jawbone.
    2. Find “the Notch” about one inch in front of your ears on the underside of the cheekbones. Press firmly inwards and upwards using your thumb into this area.
    3. Please do not proceed without checking in with a physical therapist or massage therapist.

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