TMJ Disorder Massage

A TMJ Disorder Massage is a therapeutic approach that targets the muscles of the jaw, face, neck, and shoulders to relieve pain, muscle tension, and dysfunction associated with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD). These techniques can improve jaw mobility, reduce facial discomfort, and help manage stress-related symptoms.​

Signs & Symptoms

  • Jaw pain or tenderness, especially at or near the joint just in front of the ear

  • Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when opening or closing the mouth

  • Difficulty or discomfort chewing, speaking, or yawning

  • Limited or “locked” mouth opening and jaw movement

  • Facial muscle fatigue, headaches, neck pain, or earaches.​

Contraindications

  • Avoid massage if there is acute trauma, infection, dental abscess, or recent jaw surgery without physician clearance​

  • Do not use deep or forceful techniques if pain is severe or if client has unclear diagnosis, nerve compression, or active flare-ups

  • Caution in the presence of braces, dental hardware, or skin lesions over the jaw

  • Discontinue if pain, numbness, dizziness, or worsening symptoms occur.​

Assessment

  • Review TMJ history, symptom onset and triggers (chewing, stress, bruxism), and relevant dental or jaw procedures

  • Palpate masseter, temporalis, pterygoid, and surrounding muscles for tightness, pain points, and spasm​

  • Observe jaw movement, range of motion, and presence of joint noises or clicks

  • Assess related neck, scalp, and upper back tissues for postural or compensatory tension.​

Treatment

  • Gentle kneading and circular massage to the masseter, temporalis, and jawline muscles (both extraorally and, in some cases, intraorally by a trained therapist)​

  • Cross-fiber friction and sustained pressure at muscle knots for 30–60 seconds, as tolerated​

  • Myofascial release and stretching to facial, jaw, neck, and shoulder muscles

  • Relaxation-focused techniques, including scalp, temple, and neck massage to reduce overall stress​

  • Instruct on diaphragmatic breathing during session to facilitate jaw relaxation

  • Avoid excessive pressure, and always operate within the client’s comfort range.​

Self Care

  • Perform daily self-massage with gentle circular or kneading movements to masseter, cheek, and jaw muscles​

  • Use warm compresses or hot packs on the jaw and neck for 10–15 minutes to relieve muscle stiffness​

  • Practice jaw relaxation exercises, controlled opening/closing, chin tucks, tongue-to-roof-of-mouth, and gentle lateral jaw movements​

  • Modify diet to avoid hard, chewy foods and reduce jaw strain

  • Manage stress through mindfulness, breathing exercises, or yoga, and use proper sleep posture