TMJ Disorders - Anatomy Overview     It is estimated that 20–30% of the adult population will have TMJ problems at some point in their life TMJD disorder is sometimes called the ‘Great Impostor’ because of the multiplicity of symptoms. Pain, stiffness, clicking, clunking or popping sounds, and aching in the jaw muscles characterize this debilitating problem. Classically the headache is strongly felt in the region of the ear. Types of TMJD's Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJD's) are problems affecting the joint between the lower jaw and base of the skull. There are two temporomandibular joints (TMJ's), one each side of the...

    How To Find Trigger Points - Masseter    ActiveTrigger Points in the Masseter Can Cause Ear, Tooth, and Jaw Pain The masseter is a powerful workhorse muscle that we use almost continually and can occasionally get overworked. Trigger points may form and become active in the masseter under the following conditions: Trismus (severely restricted jaw), TMJ pain, tension/stress headache, ear pain, ipsilateral tinnitus, dental pain, bruxism, sinusitis pain, puffiness under the eyes (often present in singers), Chewing gum, prolonged dental work, stress, emotional tension, head-forward occupational postures.   There are typically 1-4 groups of trigger points found in the masseter muscle...

Tips for Treating Trigger Points - Lateral Pterygoid   Trigger Points in the Lateral Pterygoid are a Common Cause of Cheek Pain  The superior head of the lateral pterygoid is sometimes called the sphenomeniscus, because it inserts into the disc of the temporomandibular joint. ORIGIN Superior head: lateral surface of greater wing of sphenoid. Inferior head: lateral surface of lateral pterygoid plate of sphenoid.     Lateral Pterygoid Trigger Points      INSERTION Superior head: capsule and articular disc of the temporomandibular joint. Inferior head: neck of mandible. ACTION Protrudes mandible. Opens mouth. Moves mandible from side to side (as...

   Trigger Points in the Upper Trapezius are often Associated with TMJ  TMJ Disorders are often associated with trigger points and typically respond well to treratment The temporomandibular joint (TMJD) works like a sliding hinge device, connecting the jawbone to the skull. TMJD disorders typically cause pain in the jaw joint and in the muscles that control the movement of the jaw.     Causes There are many reasons for TMJD disorders and it's often hard to determine the cause. The pain can be due to a number of problems, such as a jaw injury, jaw misalignment, or even arthritis. Some clients who suffer jaw pain also tend to be "teeth clencher's" or grind...