TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint), also known as the jaw bone, is a dysfunction that affects numerous people. Symptoms of this disorder include muscle spasms and pain in the head, neck and shoulders, mandible, dizziness, earaches, headaches and a limit in the ability to open the mouth. Causes of this TMJ include stress, whiplash, anxiety, bruxism, malocclusion and posture dysfunction.
There are many treatments for TMJ which can include acupuncture, pain killing medication, surgery, splint therapy, hydrotherapy and massage. Massage is extremely suitable and works well for TMJ. Because the jaw bone is found at the front and below the ear certain forms of massage work best.
One of the major differences between a typical massage and massage for TMJ is that the therapist will massage inside the mouth to access the joint area. The massage also focuses on the neck, shoulders, head and other muscles associated with the jaw. Massage loosens the muscles therefore relieving trigger points and stress. Circulation is increased through massage which assists in healing of joints and muscles.
Massage therapy is a remarkable stress reliever which will result in lower cortisol levels while at the same time increasing serotonin and oxytocin, which are mood relaxers. It is a safe and very effective form of therapy in the relief of TMJ pain and symptoms that are associated with it.
Massage therapy to treat TMJ pain is usually bi-weekly and then moving onto monthly monthly treatments as a maintenance technique. Finding a good massage therapist who works alongside the patient and develops a personal plan for each individual is the key to effective treatment and prevention of TMJ.