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Jaw pain & TMD · Redditch

Jaw pain that connects
to more than your jaw.

Temporomandibular dysfunction is more common than most people realise, and it rarely exists in isolation. Jaw pain frequently connects to neck tension, upper back restriction, and stress held in the body. Treating the jaw without looking at the rest misses the picture.

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What is TMD

Understanding jaw pain and temporomandibular dysfunction

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the jaw to the skull just in front of each ear. TMD refers to a range of conditions affecting this joint and the muscles around it, causing pain, restricted movement, or clicking and locking of the jaw.

TMD is often associated with teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw clenching, stress, dental work, or a direct injury to the jaw or head. It can also develop as a secondary problem stemming from neck dysfunction, upper cervical spine restriction, or postural issues in the head and neck region.

Osteopathic assessment of TMD includes examination of the jaw joint itself, the cervical spine, the hyoid bone, and the muscles of mastication. Reece also takes a full history to understand lifestyle factors, stress patterns, and anything else that may be contributing.

Symptoms

Signs you may have TMD

Pain in the jaw, face, or ear
Clicking or popping when opening or closing the mouth
Difficulty opening the mouth fully
Jaw locking, either open or closed
Headaches, particularly around the temples
Neck pain accompanying jaw symptoms
Pain when chewing or yawning
Teeth grinding, especially at night
A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
Facial tension that builds through the day

Treatment

How osteopathy can help with TMD

Jaw and cervical assessment

Reece assesses both the TMJ and the cervical spine, because dysfunction in either region commonly affects the other.

Intraoral and extraoral techniques

Depending on the presentation, treatment may include gentle soft tissue work to the muscles of mastication and surrounding structures, both externally and, where appropriate and consented, intraorally.

Whole-body approach

Tension in the jaw rarely exists in isolation. Reece addresses the neck, upper back, and any postural contributors to ensure the treatment holds.

Reece Jones BOst (Hons), GOsC Registered Osteopath, Redditch

Reece Jones BOst (Hons), GOsC Registered, iO Member

Reece is a GOsC-registered osteopath practising in Redditch, specialising in sports injuries and musculoskeletal conditions. He takes a thorough, patient-led approach to assessment and treatment, tailored to your age, lifestyle, and goals.

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Jaw pain or TMD that has been affecting your quality of life?

Book your assessment. Reece will carry out a thorough evaluation and put a clear treatment plan in place.

Book Your Assessment Call 07360 069447