TMJ headaches can be incredibly frustrating, as they often involve tension in the jaw, neck, and surrounding muscles and can radiate pain to areas like the temples or forehead. Combining physical therapy, dry needling, and specific exercises can help relieve these headaches and manage TMJ symptoms.
Bethesda Physiocare can help. To learn more about our Bethesda physical therapy services, call (301) 656-5613 today.
Dry Needling for TMJ Headaches
Dry needling involves inserting thin needles into trigger points in the muscles to help release tension and alleviate pain. For TMJ-related headaches, this can target muscles in the jaw, neck, and even the upper back. Common areas that might be treated include:
- Masseter Muscle: A primary muscle used for chewing, often tight in TMJ sufferers.
- Temporalis Muscle: A large muscle in the side of the head that can contribute to headache pain.
- Suboccipital Muscles: Located at the base of the skull, these can cause pain up into the head and neck.
Dry needling can provide immediate relief by decreasing muscle tension and improving blood flow to the affected areas, which helps reduce headache intensity.
Exercise and Manual Therapy for TMJ
In addition to dry needling, physical therapists will typically incorporate specific exercises to improve mobility and strengthen muscles around the jaw. These exercises can help:
- Improve Jaw Range of Motion: Gentle stretching exercises can help the jaw move more freely, reducing stiffness and discomfort.
- Strengthen Muscles: Strengthening exercises help balance the muscles around the jaw to prevent overcompensation and reduce the likelihood of tension buildup.
- Improve Posture: Correcting posture, especially if you clench your jaw or hunch forward, can be a key part of alleviating tension and headaches.
Common exercises might include:
- Jaw Relaxation: Place the tongue on the roof of the mouth and gently open and close the jaw.
- Isometric Jaw Exercises: Pressing the palm of your hand against your jaw while trying to open or close it, strengthening the jaw muscles.
- Neck Stretches: Since TMJ issues can radiate into the neck and cause headache pain, neck stretches can relieve tension and prevent headaches.
Physical Therapy Modalities for Headaches at Home
- Heat or Cold Therapy: Heat or cold packs applied to the neck, jaw, or temples can help reduce muscle spasms and pain.
Putting It All Together
For a comprehensive approach to treating TMJ headaches, physical therapy will often combine these strategies to target the root cause of the pain—whether it’s muscle tension, jaw misalignment, or poor posture. Dry needling can provide quick relief for tight muscles, while specific exercises and postural adjustments can help address the underlying causes of your TMJ disorder and headaches over time.
If you’re considering physical therapy for your TMJ headaches, it’s a good idea to consult with a therapist who specializes in TMD or headaches. They can create a personalized plan that includes dry needling, exercises, and manual therapy tailored to your specific symptoms.
Have you had any experience with dry needling or physical therapy for TMJ headaches, or is this something you’re looking into for the first time?
Additionally, here at Bethesda Physiocare, therapists have taken courses from the Cranio Facial Therapy Academy (CRAFTA) to deepen their knowledge of treatment of TMD, headaches, and facial pains. Call (301) 656-5613 to take the first step towards a pain-free life.
