Acupuncture: Approach to TMJ Disorder Relief

Image source: Flower mound Orthodontics

TMJ Dysfunction 

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction encompasses a range of conditions affecting the jaw joint and its controlling muscles. These issues can lead to symptoms such as pain, clicking or popping sounds, locking of jaw, and limited jaw mobility. 1

Causes

TMJ dysfunction can arise from several factors. These include physical trauma to the jaw, the habit of grinding teeth (bruxism), arthritis affecting the jaw joint, and issues with the alignment of the teeth or jaw itself.

Furthermore, psychological factors such as stress and anxiety can play a significant role in the development or exacerbation of TMJ dysfunction. This is because stress and anxiety often lead to behaviors like clenching and grinding the teeth, which can put excessive strain on the TMJ. 1,3

Signs and symptoms

The symptoms can manifest in various ways, with some of the more common signs including pain in the jaw itself, noticeable clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw, experiencing a limited range of motion when opening the mouth, and frequent headaches. 2,5

In addition to these common indicators, other symptoms may also be associated with TMJ dysfunction. These can include pain in or around the ears, a persistent ringing sound in the ears (tinnitus), sensations of dizziness or vertigo, and discomfort extending to the face, neck, and shoulder areas. 3,5

Treatment

Treatment usually involves a mix of approaches. These can include things you can do on your own, like self-care techniques, along with physical therapy. Sometimes, medications or even surgery might be considered. 4,6,7

Acupuncture 

Acupuncture may offer assistance to individuals in the management of various symptoms. It is frequently incorporated into comprehensive treatment plans alongside other modalities like massage therapy or the use of dental splints to manage TMJ symptoms.

The mechanisms by which acupuncture may provide relief include the relaxation of the jaw muscles, a reduction in inflammation in the affected area, and the potential release of the body's natural pain-relieving chemicals such as endorphins and mood regulators like serotonin. 8

About the Author

Youngmi Choi

Ripple Acupuncture | Newcastle | New Lambton

As an AHPRA-registered acupuncturist with 15 years of nursing experience, I offer safe, effective, and holistic care. My special interests include pain management, psycho-emotional well-being, digestive balance, and women’s health & fertility. My approach is outcome-focused, and clients receive a clear care plan with personalized lifestyle advice.

If you have any questions about your TMJ disorder condition, please make an online booking, submit an online enquiry or call me on 0402 474 884. 

Reference

1. Mayo Clinic (2024). TMJ disorders - Symptoms and causes; [reviewed 2025 Apr 30]. Available from:  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tmj/symptoms-causes/syc-20350941

2. John Hopkins Medicine (2025). Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD); [reviewed 2025 Apr 30]. Available from: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/temporomandibular-disorder-tmd

3. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (2025). TMD (Temporomandibular Disorders); [reviewed 2025 Apr 30]. Available from: https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/tmd

4. Edward W & Sarah N. Management and Treatment of Temporomandibular Disorders: A Clinical Perspective. The Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy. 2009;17(4):247-254 doi: 10.1179/106698109791352184

5. Elie F. Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD). The Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. 2021;79(10):2171-2172

6. Amed M. Treatment of temporomandibular joint internal derangement using MESNA injection. BMC Oral Health. 2024; 894(2024)

7. Badri O., Davis C.M. & Warburton G. Arthroscopic management and recent advancements in the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders. British Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. 2024; 62(9): 820 -825. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjoms.2024.07.007

8. Michele N., Azriel G., Yair M., Udi M., & Shahar L. Acupuncture for Treating Temporomandibular Disorder: Retrospective Study on Safety and Efficacy. Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies. 2010; 3(4):260-266.https://doi.org/10.1016/S2005-2901(10)60046-5