Jaw tension sneaks up on you. Then one day you realise that those muscles in your jaw are always hard as rocks at the desk when they could just be hanging loose, or where a headache feels like it originates directly from above each temple. Many factors can cause TMJ (temporomandibular joint) problems; however, for most people, stress plays a huge role.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Symptoms that your jaw pain might be stress-induced:
You might notice:
Grinding (of teeth, especially at night)
Tension-type headaches or temporal pain
Tired jaw by the end of the afternoon
Neck and shoulder tension
Flaring during the busiest times (work deadlines, travel, loss of sleep).
Stress is not “just in your head”. It indicates that your nervous system is guarding the muscles.
Why do people try acupuncture?
Small needles are often used to assist in moving the body down from on-edge (fight or flight). For jaw tension, clinicians might choose to address relaxation of muscles around the jaw and address a broader pattern of tension (neck, shoulders, and upper back), as well as sleep and stress levels. For Acupuncture Evesham, visit www.purelandsacu.co.uk/acupuncture-evesham
What to try alongside treatment
You can perform this “jaw check” throughout the day, multiple times per day: Lips together, teeth apart. Tongue resting.
Hot pack on the jaw for five to ten minutes, twice a day.
No chewing overload for one week (gum, chewy sweets, tough crusts).
Jaw stretches and exercises (your practitioner can demonstrate safe ones).
Ask your dentist about a night guard if you happen to grind your teeth.
If your jaw is locking or clicking painfully, and/or the symptoms are getting worse, see a dentist for examination.