Did you know that the human jaw can exert up to 200 pounds of pressure—enough to crack a walnut? While that might sound impressive, for the millions suffering from TMJ Disorder, this powerful muscle becomes a source of constant pain. Everyday actions like chewing, speaking, or even yawning can feel unbearable. But what if there was a way to target the root of this discomfort? That’s where dry needling for TMJ Disorder offers relief by relaxing the overworked, tight muscles that contribute to the pain.
What is TMJ Disorder
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) occurs when the joint connecting your jaw to your skull begins to function irregularly. This can result from a variety of causes, including jaw misalignment, teeth grinding (bruxism), arthritis, or even jaw injuries. Muscle tension in the jaw, neck, and face also plays a significant role, as it can put added strain on the joint.
Over time, this irregular function leads to common symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing. While many treatments aim to reduce pain, dry needling for TMJ Disorder directly addresses the underlying muscle tension contributing to the condition.
Benefits of Dry Needling for TMJ Disorder
Dry needling targets the tense, knotted muscles—known as trigger points—in the jaw that contribute to TMJ pain. By inserting thin needles into these trigger points, the therapy helps release tension, relax the muscles, and restore proper function.
But dry needling doesn’t just stop at the jaw; it also addresses the surrounding areas, such as the neck and shoulders, which often carry excess tension from the jaw's dysfunction. This holistic approach offers more comprehensive relief for those suffering from TMJ Disorder.
Pain Relief and Muscle Relaxation
Dry needling delivers immediate relief by directly targeting the muscles responsible for TMJ pain, such as the masseter, temporalis, and pterygoid muscles. These key jaw muscles often develop trigger points, leading to pain and restricted movement. By releasing this tension, dry needling relaxes the muscle fibers, providing targeted pain relief and reducing overall discomfort.
Improved Jaw Function and Mobility
The relaxation of tense muscles also leads to improved jaw mobility. After treatment, patients often notice they can chew, speak, and move their jaw more freely. By focusing on the deep muscle tension that limits jaw function, dry needling helps restore flexibility and range of motion, making daily tasks less painful.
Long-Term Relief from TMJ Symptoms
With consistent treatments, dry needling offers more than just temporary relief—it provides long-term solutions to chronic TMJ symptoms. By breaking the cycle of muscle tension, patients experience fewer flare-ups and enjoy lasting pain relief, allowing them to regain control over their day-to-day lives without the burden of persistent jaw pain.
Is Dry Needling for TMJ Disorder Right for You?
If you experience chronic jaw pain, headaches, or difficulty chewing due to TMJ, dry needling may be the solution you need. It’s especially effective for patients whose pain is caused by muscle tension and trigger points, providing relief where other treatments fall short.
Experience Relief from TMJ Disorder with Dry Needling
Dry needling offers long-lasting relief by directly targeting the tight muscles contributing to TMJ symptoms. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Rhonda Hogan, DACM at AbsoluteQi Acupuncture & Wellness in Somerset, New Jersey, to create a personalized treatment plan. Call us at 732-227-9991 or book your session online.
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