What Is a TMJ Massage?
Temporomandibular joint massage (TMJ) is a specialized form of therapeutic massage intended to reduce pain and restore mobility to the jaw. While TMJ can be done on its own to treat physical issues with the mobility of the jaw, it can also be used as part of a holistic approach to therapy that includes treatment for both body and mind. Let’s explore what a TMJ massage is and the benefits it offers.
TMJ Methodology
In many ways, our bodies are exquisitely complex machines. Countless muscles, tendons, and ligaments drive the motion of our bodies, all working in unison. However, like any complex machine, with age, injury, or trauma, the delicate harmony of our body can be disrupted.
Before anything else, the therapist begins with an assessment of the range of motion in the jaw, as well as identifying areas of tension and sensitivity. Once that has been established, TMJ massage is used to address the breakdown function of the jaw by using specialized massage techniques.
External Massage
TMJ massage typically includes treatment of the muscles around the jaw, neck, and shoulders. As with any massage, the intention is to promote healing by improving blood flow to the area and to reduce tension in the related muscles. Additionally, external massage is used to help clients relax, and build a sense of trust and safety between therapist and client.
During the external portion of a TMJ massage, the therapist may use several different techniques, including but not limited to:
Effleurage: Sweeping strokes used to promote circulation and reduce tension.
Petrissage: Massage of the jaw, temples, and neck, with different levels of pressure.
Friction: Deep, circular pressure to sensitive or tense areas around the TMJ.
Stretching Exercises: Guided exercises to reduce stiffness and improve mobility of the jaw.
Intraoral Massage
While external massage can be effective in treating many TMJ disorders, it’s critical to meet the muscles of the jaw where they live. During the intraoral component of a TMJ massage, the therapist works the interior muscles of the temporomandibular joint. During intraoral massage, particular care is paid to ensure that the process is hygienic and comfortable.
Therapists may frequently check in to gauge comfort, or establish signals to let them know when they’ve found the right spot, or need to take a break.
Some of the techniques used during intraoral massage include:
Trigger Point Therapy: Application of gentle pressure to the pterygoid muscles, which are located near the back of the jaw and inside the mouth.
Myofascial Release: Application of sustained pressure to the fascia, improving mobility of the jaw.
Temporalis Muscle Relief: TMJ disorders are often linked to chronic headaches in addition to jaw pain. These can be alleviated by simultaneously applying pressure to the temple area and the interior upper cheek.
Interior Masseter Muscle Release: A gentle massage on the inside of the cheek, which is used to improve jaw function and reduce tightness related to inflammation or tension.
Pterygoid Muscle Release: The pterygoid muscles are located near the back of the jaw, inside the mouth. Applying gentle pressure to this area can alleviate pain caused by TMJ disorders.
Benefits of TMJ Massage
Often, TMJ massage is used to treat both psychological and physiological conditions. TMJ massage offers improvements to quality of life. Key benefits include pain relief, improved jaw function, reduced inflammation of the jaw, treatment for chronic headaches, and stress reduction. It’s an effective treatment for emotional stress, misalignment of the teeth, teeth grinding, arthritis, and other injuries to the jaw.
Schedule an Appointment
At HeartSeed we practice an integrated approach to wellness—bringing holistic healing to both body and mind. We understand that each person’s needs are unique to them, informed by their own personal history, genetics, and current circumstances. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about TMJ Massage and how we might be able to help you.