The Upside of Mandibular Joint Ventures
Last time, we ended with the use of localized massage therapy to decrease muscle stress associated with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. As high as 75% of the population has at least one sign of dysfunction in this joint, with a third reporting at least one symptom. In addition, TMJ disorders are thought to be an underrecognized cause of chronic headaches, in addition to reported associations with other ophthalmologic (eye) and otolaryngologic (ear, nose, and throat) conditions.
With the meaningful portion of the population experiencing discomfort associated with the TMJ, it is no surprise that videos highlighting the kneading and distension of facial muscles by an expert from the inside of the face have populated various social media platforms. Celebrity faces of JLo, Megan Markle and Kristen Bell, according to the Guardian, have also adopted the ‘inner facial’.
Pain in the associated muscles or the surrounding connective tissue, also known as myofascial pain, is the most common cause of TMJ disorders. The principal activity of the TMJ, chewing or mastication, turns out to be a complex interplay of neuromuscular coordination requiring both rapid movements and continuous adjustments of force, and all of the head and neck muscles have to work together in accomplishing this task. In addition, the position of the head and cervical spine, and alignment of the teeth all may contribute as well to the relative success of this endeavor.
Studies using either computer tomography or ultraviolet stereo-image correlation with melanin pigment have shown measurable changes to the displacement and strain in multiple facial regions with massage. Massage also improves blood flow which leads to improved healing and activates the fast sensory nerve fibers to block pain signals transmitted by slower nerve fibers. A randomized study has shown the benefits of facial massage for patients with increased masseter muscle tension and limited mandibular mobility.
TMJ disorder related facial tension and pain impacts quality of life in a consequential segment of the population. Non-invasive manual therapy techniques, including intra-oral massage, sometimes coupled with self-care routines at home, have yielded promising results in the clinical literature.
Spring signals fresh starts. Please consult a professional to determine the appropriate intervention for you.
Posted on April 19, 2026.