What are the temporomandibulars (TMJs)?
Temporomandibulars are the joints located in front of the ears that connect the jawbone to the skull; they assist in chewing and speaking.
What is temporomandibular disorder?
Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is inflammation, or irritation of the muscles and ligaments around your TMJs.
Most people refer to TMD as TMJ.
What causes TMJ?
What are the symptoms of TMJ?
How does a Myofascial Release Therapist treat TMJ?
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internal release: therapist gently holds the jaw muscle (masseter) with their index finger inside the client's mouth for approximately five-to-seven minutes on each side, until there is a softening of the tissue
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external release: therapist presses their fingers into the insertion of the masseteres at the TMJs
How does Myofascial Release help TMJ?
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relaxes the connective-tissue (fascia) that incases the muscles of the jaw, which allows the jaw to unlock
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decreases the symptoms of TMJ, so the use of a night guard is no longer necessary
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reduces the amount of strain on the jaw, which lessens the chance for degeneration
Long term TMJ disorder can lead to tooth erosion, or sleep apnea
The strongest muscles in the body are located in the jaw, and they put a tremendous amount of force on the TMJs, especially under stress.
Myofascial Release teaches you how to let go of jaw tension, which helps deprogram old patterns of holding stress and clenching.