What is TMJ?

Temporomandibular joint disorders, commonly called "TMJ," are a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. Teeth, Jaw, and the Atlanto-axial joint (the area between the skull and the neck often injured in whiplash) form one of most interconnected areas of the body, in terms of postural and psychological reflexes. Only 5% of people in the Western world have normal TMJ function (Fonder, The Dental Physician). These imbalances result in uneven wear patterns and pressure on the teeth, joints, upper neck, and cranial sutures. Symptoms of TMJ syndrome are:

• Neck or Jaw pain
• Headaches
• Limited movement or locking of the jaw
• Painful clicking, popping or grating in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth
• A change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together

​Cranial Sacral Therapy is especially effective in dealing with TMJ conditions because it honors motion, by relaxing the muscles of the jaw, face, and neck, there is less tension and more mobility to function properly.