Tired of Waking Up With Jaw Pain? Massage Therapy May Help Your TMJ
Author: Denise Leslie
If your jaw clicks, clenches, or locks—and you wake up feeling like you’ve been chewing in your sleep you may be experiencing TMJ dysfunction or bruxism. These conditions can cause not just jaw pain but tension headaches, earaches, and facial discomfort that lingers for days.
At Medical & Sports Massage in Sandy Springs, we help clients like you find lasting relief with targeted medical massage therapy — and that includes jaw pain, too.
What Is TMJ Dysfunction?
If your jaw clicks, clenches, or locks—and you wake up feeling like you’ve been chewing in your sleep—you may be experiencing TMJ dysfunction or bruxism. These conditions can cause not just jaw pain but tension headaches, earaches, and facial discomfort that lingers for days.
At Medical & Sports Massage in Sandy Springs, we help clients like you find lasting relief with targeted medical massage therapy—and that includes jaw pain, too.
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint—the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull. When surrounding muscles become tight, overworked, or inflamed, it can trigger:
Jaw soreness or fatigue
Headaches near the temples or ears
Clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw
Neck and shoulder tension
Nighttime grinding or clenching (bruxism)
TMJ symptoms don’t always start in the jaw—they can present as facial tightness, tension headaches, or poor sleep. That’s why massage therapy offers more than surface relief: Massage gets to the root of the muscle dysfunction by reducing tension in the surrounding muscles, improving circulation, and creating space for proper jaw movement.
How Massage Therapy Helps TMJ and Bruxism
Our licensed therapists work on the facial, jaw, and neck muscles that contribute to TMJ pain. Sessions may include deep tissue work, trigger point therapy, and gentle myofascial release—all focused on relieving the muscular tension behind your symptoms.
Improve jaw mobility and range of motion
Reduce the frequency of clenching or grinding.
Decrease headache and facial pain.
Calm the nervous system for better sleep.
Prevent patterns from returning with regular care.
Treatment may include:
Trigger Point Therapy – Releases knots and tension in key areas like the masseter, temporalis, and sternocleidomastoid.
Myofascial Release – Gently stretches and loosens the connective tissue (fascia) that can restrict movement.
Lymphatic Drainage – Reduces inflammation and fluid buildup that may contribute to pressure in the jaw and ear.
Cranial Work – Focuses on subtle shifts in the bones and soft tissues of the head and face to relieve pressure.
Our Client Feedback Says It All
Common TMJ Triggers You Might Overlook
TMJ issues don’t always start with the jaw. These factors may be contributing to your symptoms:
Posture: Forward head posture can tighten the jaw and neck.
Stress: Emotional tension often shows up in the jaw first.
Dehydration: Muscles need hydration to stay flexible.
Dental misalignment or missing teeth
Hormonal shifts
That’s why it’s important to take a holistic approach. A conversation with your dentist may also be helpful—especially if you're grinding your teeth at night or have a misaligned bite.
Treatment for TMJ Relief
Option
TMJ Massage Therapy
Night Guard (Dental)
Medications
Botox
What It Does
Releases tight muscles, improves circulation
Protects teeth while sleeping
Reduces pain and inflammation
Weakens jaw muscle contraction
What It Misses
Doesn’t fix bite or jaw alignment
Doesn’t address muscle tension or jaw stress
Temporary relief; doesn’t stop clenching
Invasive; may reduce jaw function over time
DIY Relief Tips Between Sessions
While professional massage can make a big difference, small daily habits can help reduce TMJ discomfort.. Download our free DIY TMJ Relief Tips Guide [here].
Inside, you'll learn:
Gentle stretches to relieve facial tension
Heat/cold guidance for flare-ups
How to talk to your massage therapist about jaw symptoms
What to mention to your dentist if you suspect grinding
Ready to Feel Relief?
TMJ and bruxism pain can sneak into every part of your day, from chewing to concentrating. You don’t have to live with it. A focused, therapeutic massage can help you feel like yourself again—calm, relaxed, and pain-free.
Book your massage today
Free consultations available
Let’s help you Live Life Pain Free..
What People Ask About TMJ and Massage
- When should I see a professional about jaw pain?
- You should see a professional If the pain is consistent, affects your ability to eat or speak, or causes headaches. Massage therapy can help relieve muscular tension, but we often work in tandem with dentists and other healthcare professionals.
- Is TMJ massage painful?
- It shouldn’t be. Our approach is gentle but targeted. You may feel slight pressure or sensitivity at first, but most clients feel relief and relaxation by the end of the session.
- How many sessions will I need?
- Everyone’s different. Many clients feel improvement in 1–3 sessions. For chronic issues, a series of weekly or bi-weekly visits may help reset patterns.
About The Author
Denise Leslie is a powerhouse mother, entrepreneur, and advocate for pain-free living. With a passion for healing and promoting health and wellness, As a dedicated therapist, Denise is committed to empowering others on their journey to optimal well-being. She understands the importance of community support and never stops serving those around her.