“My Jaw Hurts”: TMJ Pain Unlocked And Jaw Alignment Demystified

When people experience jaw pain, they might not realize that misalignment in the jaw joint - called the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) - could be the culprit. This joint is responsible for the jaw's movement and sits just in front of each ear, connecting the jawbone (mandible) to the skull. When the jaw is out of alignment, it can cause a chain reaction of discomfort throughout the face, head, and even neck.

What is TMJ Dysfunction (TMJD)?

TMJ dysfunction happens when the jaw joint doesn’t move the way it’s supposed to, often because of misalignment in the jaw. This can make it painful or difficult to open and close the mouth.

Here are some symptoms:

1) Jaw Pain and Clicking

Misalignment can create strain, making the joint click, pop, or ache when moving the jaw.

2) Frequent Headaches

Tight muscles around the jaw can cause tension headaches, especially in the temples and back of the head.

3) Tension and Soreness

The muscles that help move the jaw (including those in the cheeks and temples) often become tense, which can also lead to neck and shoulder stiffness.

Related Issues: Sinus Pressure, Facial Swelling, and Headaches

Misalignment of the jaw doesn’t just affect the jaw itself—it can even lead to other uncomfortable symptoms, including:

1) Sinus Congestion

Since the jaw joint is located near the sinuses, the pressure from TMJ issues can be related to sinus congestion and discomfort.

2) Swelling and Puffiness

Tension around the jaw and face can restrict lymphatic flow, a system that helps drain excess fluid and waste from tissues. This congestion can cause puffiness and heaviness in the face.

3) Persistent Headaches

Because jaw misalignment strains nearby muscles, it often leads to headaches. These headaches may feel like a dull ache near the temples or a throbbing sensation around the back of the head.

How Osteopathic Care Can Help With TMJ

Osteopathic care provides a hands-on approach to treating TMJ issues by addressing the misalignment in the jaw, relieving muscle tension, and promoting healthy fluid flow in the face.

Here’s how it works:

Jaw Realignment

Gentle techniques may realign the jaw, easing pressure on the joint and allowing it to move more naturally without discomfort or clicking.

Relaxing Tight Muscles

By loosening up the muscles around the jaw and neck, Osteopathic treatment may relieve pain and tension headaches. When muscles around the jaw relax, it also helps reduce strain in the head and neck.

Improving Circulation and Reducing Puffiness

Techniques that encourage lymphatic flow in the face may help reduce swelling and puffiness, allowing the body to naturally clear out excess fluid and inflammation.

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®2025 Dr. George Cheriyan DO