Why Does My Jaw Hurt? Understanding TMJ Disorders

If you're experiencing jaw pain, clicking, or tightness in your face or neck, I want you to know you’re not alone. I meet so many people at the clinic who come in with these very symptoms, often unsure what’s causing them or how to find relief.

In many cases, the discomfort is linked to something called TMJ disorder and with the right support, it can get better. In this post, I’ll explain what TMJ is, what might be causing your jaw pain and how gentle therapy can help you feel more at ease in your body again.

What Is TMJ Disorder?

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, a small but powerful hinge that connects your lower jaw to your skull. You have one on each side of your face, just in front of your ears. When these joints become irritated or out of balance, they can cause a wide range of symptoms, not just in the jaw but often in the head, face, neck and shoulders too.

When this happens, we refer to it as TMJ disorder, or sometimes TMD. It's much more common than people realise and it can affect every part of your daily life, from eating and talking, to sleeping and concentrating.

What Does TMJ Pain Feel Like?

TMJ symptoms can vary from person to person, but here are some of the most common signs I see in clinic:

• Aching or tenderness in the jaw

• Clicking, popping or grinding when opening or closing your mouth

• Stiffness or difficulty moving the jaw freely

• Pain near the ears, or a feeling of pressure inside them

• Frequent headaches and/or migraines, especially around the temples and forehead

• Facial, neck, or shoulder tension

• Clenching or grinding teeth, especially during sleep

Some people also experience dizziness, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), or even pain that radiates down into the shoulders or back. It can be overwhelming, especially when you’re not sure what’s causing it.

What Causes TMJ Dysfunction?

There’s no single cause for TMJ issues, but here are some of the common contributors I explore with clients:

• Jaw clenching or teeth grinding, often linked to stress

• Poor posture, especially when working at a desk or using devices

• An injury to the jaw, neck or head

• Arthritis or inflammation in the joints

• Dental issues or misalignment of the bite

• Hypermobility or lax joints, which some people are naturally prone to

Often, it’s a combination of these factors. That’s why it’s so important to look at the bigger picture, not just the jaw itself, but how your whole body and nervous system are responding.

How I Support People with Jaw Pain

When someone comes to me with TMJ symptoms, my first priority is to create a space where they feel safe, heard and fully supported. There’s no rush, no pressure, just time to explore what’s going on in your body and how we can begin to ease it together.

I use a gentle, hands-on approach that may include:

• Soft tissue massage to the jaw, neck, and shoulders

• Myofascial release to reduce restriction and improve movement

• Craniosacral therapy, especially when the nervous system needs soothing

• Postural awareness and relaxation techniques, when appropriate

Everything is tailored to you. Some people feel relief within a session or two; others find they benefit from ongoing, supportive care. Wherever you’re at, we’ll move at your pace.

A Whole-Body Approach to Healing

I believe that jaw pain isn’t just about the jaw. It’s often a reflection of how we’re holding ourselves, physically and emotionally. Many people I work with carry stress or trauma in their bodies, sometimes without realising it and it often finds its way into the face, neck, and jaw.

That’s why at Ashburton Therapy it isn’t just about relieving symptoms. It’s about creating space for your body to unwind and reset. Together, we’ll work gently to release tension, restore ease of movement and bring your body back into balance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does TMJ pain feel like?
It can be anything from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing sensation. You might notice it when you eat, yawn, or speak, or it may be there all the time. Many people also experience referred pain, like headaches or neck stiffness.

Can stress really cause jaw pain?
Absolutely. Stress often leads to clenching or grinding without us even realising it, especially at night. Over time, this can really overload the muscles and joints of the jaw.

Is TMJ therapy painful?
Not at all. I work gently and with full respect for your comfort levels. Some areas might feel tender at first, but therapy should never feel invasive or overwhelming.

How many sessions will I need?
That depends on your symptoms and how long they’ve been going on. Some people feel an improvement after just a couple of sessions, while others choose to continue longer-term. We’ll keep checking in and adjusting as needed.

Do I need a referral?
No, you’re welcome to get in touch with me directly. If you’re not sure whether this type of therapy is right for you, I’m always happy to have a chat first.

You're Not Alone in This

Living with jaw pain can be exhausting. It can affect how you eat, sleep, work and how you feel in yourself. But please know, there is support available. You don’t have to “just live with it.”

If you’re ready to explore how TMJ therapy could help, I’d love to welcome you to the clinic here in Banbury. Together, we’ll work to ease your pain, restore your comfort, and help you feel more like you again.

With warmth,

Emily
Ashburton Therapy Clinic, Banbury