A sore, tight jaw when you wake up, painful clicking when you chew, or a dull ache that spreads into your temples and neck can be signs of a temporomandibular disorder (TMD). Jaw clenching or grinding — including habits that happen during sleep or periods of stress — may also contribute to jaw muscle tension and discomfort.
Why the Jaw Gets So Tense
The jaw muscles are active throughout the day with talking and chewing, and clenching or grinding can place additional strain on them. Over time, this may contribute to jaw soreness, reduced range of motion, and headaches or discomfort that can extend into the temples, face, or neck.
How Massage Therapy Helps
Registered Massage Therapy can target the muscles around the jaw, temples, neck, and shoulders, helping address muscle tension and discomfort and supporting more comfortable jaw movement.
Signs It’s Worth Getting Checked
- Morning jaw soreness or a tired feeling in your jaw
- Painful clicking, popping, or a jaw that catches when opening wide
- Frequent headaches centered around the temples
- Catching yourself clenching during the day
If jaw tension or pain is becoming persistent or affecting how comfortably you chew or open your mouth, our massage therapy team at Joayo Therapy in Brentwood, Burnaby can assess the surrounding muscle tension and help build an appropriate care plan.
