TMJ and jaw pain: causes, symptoms and treatment
A clinically reviewed guide to jaw (TMJ) pain — the causes, and how it is managed conservatively.
Medically reviewed by D.C Matt · Lead Director
Last reviewed 1 July 2026
- TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint — the jaw joint.
- Clenching and grinding are common contributors.
- Most cases respond to conservative, non-surgical care.
What is a TMJ disorder?
A TMJ disorder is a problem with the jaw joint or the muscles that move it, producing pain and altered jaw movement.
The temporomandibular joints connect the jaw to the skull. Dysfunction can involve the joint, the muscles, or both, and is often linked to clenching, grinding or stress.
What are the symptoms of TMJ problems?
Common symptoms are jaw pain, clicking or locking, and difficulty or discomfort opening the mouth.
- Pain around the jaw, cheek or ear
- Clicking, popping or locking of the jaw
- Difficulty or discomfort opening wide
- Headaches or neck tension
- Jaw muscle fatigue, especially with chewing
How is TMJ pain treated?
Most TMJ pain is treated conservatively, with jaw and neck exercises, manual therapy, and managing clenching, grinding and stress.
Addressing habits such as clenching, and treating related neck tension, are important. Dental input may be needed for grinding. Surgery is rarely required.
The Postura approach
At Postura Wellness, care for jaw (TMJ) pain is built around OrthoRestore™ — our signature method that combines chiropractic and physiotherapy into one coordinated plan. Depending on your assessment, it can bring together chiropractic adjustments, dry needling, muscle manipulation, Active Release Technique, and targeted exercises, supported where helpful by technology such as shockwave therapy and bioelectric therapy. The aim is to relieve symptoms while addressing the underlying causes, with a plan tailored to you.
Sciatica FAQs
Does TMJ pain go away on its own?
Many episodes settle, especially when contributing habits like clenching are addressed. Persistent pain benefits from assessment and a management plan.
Can stress cause jaw pain?
Yes. Stress often leads to clenching and grinding, which are common contributors to TMJ pain.
Is my jaw clicking a problem?
Painless clicking is common and not always a concern. Clicking with pain, locking or difficulty opening is worth assessing.
Can physiotherapy help TMJ pain?
Yes. Jaw and neck exercises, manual therapy and habit changes are effective for most TMJ pain.
This guide is informed by patient information from accredited medical institutions:
- Cleveland Clinic
- NIH — NIDCR
- Mayo Clinic
- Merck Manual
- MedlinePlus (NIH)
- NHS — Oxford University Hospitals
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Temporomandibular disorder
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