What is Jaw Pain (TMJ)?
Temporomandibular disorder (TMD), often called TMJ, affects the jaw joint and the muscles that move it. It is often linked to clenching or grinding your teeth, stress, or wear in the joint.
It usually improves with self-care such as eating softer foods, managing stress and relaxing the jaw muscles.
Common signs
- Pain around the jaw, ear or temple
- Clicking, popping or grinding when opening the mouth
- Difficulty opening the mouth fully
- Headaches or earache
- Tight, tired jaw muscles, especially in the morning
How can therapists help?
Osteopaths and physiotherapists with an interest in jaw problems can use gentle treatment and exercises. Facial massage, craniosacral therapy and relaxation therapies may help release tension in the jaw muscles and reduce clenching linked to stress.
Find a therapist near you who treats jaw pain (tmj)
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This page is for general information only and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for medical advice. If your pain is severe, came on after a serious injury, is getting worse, or comes with symptoms such as numbness, weakness, fever or loss of bladder or bowel control, speak to your GP or call NHS 111 — or 999 in an emergency.
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