TMJ: More than a jaw problem
When most people think about TMJ, they think about the jaw.
But TMJ symptoms are rarely just about the jaw itself.
They’re often connected to what’s happening above and below it—your neck, your rib position, your breathing mechanics, and your overall stress load. When those systems aren’t working well together, the jaw is forced to take on more work than it should.
And that’s when pain, clenching, clicking, headaches, and tension start to show up.
Why this happens
Your jaw is closely tied to:
Neck tension and posture
Rib and thoracic position
How you breathe
How much stress your body is carrying
If your ribs are flared, your neck is constantly tight, or your body is stuck in a stressed, braced position, your jaw often becomes a stabilizer. Over time, that extra demand creates irritation and discomfort.
Where Dry Needling comes in
Dry needling can be a powerful tool to reduce TMJ-related symptoms when used strategically.
Targeting muscles like the masseter, temporalis, upper traps, and neck helps:
Calm overactive tissue
Improve blood flow
Reduce protective tension
Increase awareness of how you’re holding yourself
This creates a window for change.
Why pairing it with the right work matters
Dry needling alone can provide relief. But when it’s paired with the right strength and mobility work, the results last.
Once tension decreases, your body has the opportunity to:
Learn better neck and rib positioning
Restore efficient breathing patterns
Build strength where support is actually needed
At FIXXED Physical Therapy in Wakefield, we address TMJ symptoms as a whole-body pattern. We will create a plan for your TMJ, neck, ribs, and posture concerns so you can feel real, lasting relief.
