Understanding jaw pain or problems: How osteopathy can help
Jaw dysfunction or problems, also known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ for short) problems, are a condition that can affect your daily life but tends not to be progressive. Whether it’s discomfort during chewing and speaking or persistent discomfort and headaches, this condition can be frustrating. While the impact can vary, there are approaches that may help manage the symptoms, so it’s important to find the right approach for you. Osteopathy offers a non-invasive approach that considers the interconnectedness of the body’s systems.
What is jaw dysfunction?
The TMJ is the hinge connecting your jaw to your skull. It allows for the movements necessary for speaking, chewing, and yawning. Problems in this joint can result from various factors, including injury, teeth grinding (bruxism), arthritis, or stress. Symptoms might include jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, headaches, or earaches.
The role of osteopathy in managing jaw problems
Osteopathy is a patient-centred healthcare approach that focuses on the musculoskeletal system. Osteopaths consider the relationship between the body’s structure and its function, working to support the body’s natural healing processes.
For those living with jaw problems, osteopathic care goes beyond just hands-on techniques. It involves an approach that may include manual therapy aimed at addressing tension and supporting mobility in the areas surrounding the jaw, neck and upper back, as well as education to help manage underlying factors, such as stress. By integrating these components, osteopaths work to address discomfort and support overall function based on individual needs.
Supporting your body’s natural function
Osteopathy’s approach to managing jaw problems is built on principles that support the body’s natural function. Treatment is selected based on current clinical understanding and the osteopath’s assessment of your specific needs. While individual results can vary, some patients have reported changes in their symptoms such as reduced jaw pain and improved movement.
Is osteopathy right for you?
If you’re experiencing symptoms of jaw problems, osteopathy may be a valuable part of your management plan. It’s important to remember that osteopathy is one component of a broader multidisciplinary approach. Your osteopath may collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as your dentist, speech pathologist, or GP, to ensure a well-rounded approach to your care.
Jaw problems can impact your quality of life, but with the right approach, there may be ways to help manage it. Osteopathy offers a non-invasive approach that considers how the body’s systems work together. If you’re experiencing jaw pain or discomfort, consider consulting with an osteopath to explore how they may be able to support your journey to better health.
Addressing stress and its impact on jaw dysfunction
Stress commonly contributes to jaw dysfunction, often manifesting as teeth grinding or clenching, which can exacerbate symptoms. Osteopaths recognise the importance of addressing stress in a comprehensive care plan. Through education and lifestyle advice, your osteopath can work with you to identify stressors and explore strategies to help manage them, potentially reducing their impact on your jaw function.
This blog was developed with Dr Charlotte Brynes (Osteopath) from Ocean Road Allied Health and Movement. Charlotte is a member of Osteopathy Australia, an Advanced Practice Titled Pain Management osteopath.