What symptoms may be alleviated by intraoral massage?

Clicking and/or popping of the jaw

Toothaches due to constant clenching

Headaches, especially upon waking

Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

Lockjaw – both closed and open position

Limited range of mouth opening

Chronic jaw pain

Intraoral TMJ Massage Standard of Care

If you’re suffering from jaw or facial discomfort, this specialized type of massage can be a very effective way to relieve chronic TMJ pain. However, it’s important to note that just having one massage will not result in a total end to your pain and discomfort.Massages and other bodywork, no matter what area of the body you’re targeting, are something that likely needs to be done on a recurring or intermittent basis – both by a professional and by yourself at home (self-care!), in order to ensure a reprieve from symptoms in the long-term.

How does TMJ/intraoral massage work specifically?

Simply put, intraoral massage therapy works (over a period of time) to alleviate tension, and sometimes pain in the facial area and around the jaw. Although a therapist works on the facial muscles in an effort to alleviate tension in TMJ trigger points, most therapists also incorporate intraoral techniques: massages performed within the mouth itself, in order to adequately reach all of the muscles and areas that factor into TMJ pain and dysfunction.

TMJ Dysfunction ASSESSMENT

Your therapist will need to assess your jaw area first to help determine the cause of dysfunction and understand the full picture of symptoms.This may include asking questions and measuring your ability to open your mouth. Once on the massage table, the therapist may palpate (feel out) the joint while you open and close your mouth so they can best understand what’s happening in the joint during movement.