The jaw operates around two of the most used joints in the human body, the temporomandibular joints (TMJ). It’s estimated that we move our jaw anywhere from 1500 to 2000 times per day, everyday. Muscles attaching the jawbone to the surrounding structures, including the skull, neck and shoulder girdle even, are responsible for this movement. While there are numerous external muscles that assist in jaw movement, there are 4 internal muscles that take on the majority of the work. It’s not uncommon for people to clench their jaw while under stress or while deep in thought. Bruxism (teeth grinding) is also a common occurrence, and often it occurs while people sleep so they are unaware of their actions but wake with a sore & fatigued jaw. Given these facts it is not surprising that approximately 10% of the population suffers from or will suffer from jaw pain and dysfunction at some time in their life. There are other potential causes to TMJ disorders as well. Consider dental work that leaves teeth misaligned, or direct trauma to the jaw or face!
Chrystal has a keen interest in offering intraoral massage to treat the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) to help alleviate various symptoms of TMJ Dysfunction. These symptoms may include pain in the jaw or head while chewing, clenching or otherwise using the muscles of mastication, limited ability to open or close the jaw, and clicking and popping may be present upon opening or closing. In addition, TMJ Dysfunction can lead to headaches, toothaches, ear and face aches. Intraoral massage therapy has proven to be beneficial in alleviating all of these symptoms.
While all Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) in BC learn to do intraoral massage therapy, Chrystal takes a special interest in this area and has taken post graduate courses specifically aimed at treating the TMJ. Go ahead and book your appointment today!