Headaches and TMJ: Could Your Jaw Be Contributing?
Headaches and jaw pain frequently occur together, but the relationship is not always straightforward.
The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) sit immediately in front of the ears and allow the jaw to open, close and move from side to side. Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) can affect these joints, the chewing muscles and surrounding structures.
Some people with TMD experience headaches around the temples, facial tenderness or pain that worsens when chewing, clenching or opening the mouth.
Can TMD cause headaches?
Yes. Headache attributed to TMD is a recognised clinical diagnosis. Supporting features can include pain that changes with jaw movement or function, tenderness of the chewing muscles, and reproduction of the familiar headache during examination.
The muscles of mastication, particularly the temporalis muscle, can contribute to pain around the temples. However, not every headache in someone with jaw pain is caused by TMD.
Migraine, tension-type headache, medication-overuse headache and other conditions may coexist with jaw problems. A careful history is therefore important.
How can TMJ physiotherapy help?
Depending on the findings, treatment may include:
- Education about jaw function and pain.
- Gentle exercises to improve comfortable jaw movement.
- Manual therapy where appropriate.
- Advice on reducing sustained clenching and other aggravating habits.
- Strategies to manage flare-ups and gradually return to normal activities.
A dentist may also be an important member of the care team, particularly when dental problems, tooth wear or a dental appliance need consideration. Physiotherapy and dentistry can complement one another; neither should be assumed to address every cause of headache.
When should you seek further assessment?
A sudden, severe or unusual headache, or a headache accompanied by neurological symptoms, requires urgent medical assessment. New headaches after the age of 50, particularly with scalp tenderness, jaw pain on chewing or visual symptoms, also warrant prompt medical review.
If you have recurring headaches alongside jaw pain, clicking or difficulty opening your mouth, TMD physiotherapy may help establish whether your jaw is contributing.
Longevity Physiotherapy provides specialist assessment and rehabilitation for jaw pain and TMD in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
