TMJ Massage in Edmonton

Relieve Jaw Pain, Tension Headaches, and Facial Discomfort Through Targeted TMJ Therapy

TMJ Massage is a specialized therapeutic treatment focused on the muscles of the jaw, face, neck, and head that contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. If you experience jaw pain, clicking, grinding, headaches, or tightness when talking or chewing, this focused session can help relieve tension, improve mobility, and reduce associated discomfort.

At Massage Renewal, our Registered Massage Therapists use precise techniques — both extraoral (outside the mouth) and, when appropriate, intraoral (inside the mouth with gloves) — to address the root muscular causes of TMJ-related pain.

What Is TMJ Dysfunction?

TMJ dysfunction occurs when the muscles and soft tissues surrounding the jaw become tight, overactive, or inflamed. Common contributors include:

  • Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)

  • Stress and anxiety

  • Poor posture or forward head posture

  • Dental misalignment

  • Injury to the jaw or neck

  • Habitual chewing (gum, nails, etc.)

  • Sleep disturbances

  • TMJ disc issues

When these structures become strained, clients often experience chronic discomfort and reduced jaw function.

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Symptoms TMJ Massage May Help With

TMJ-focused massage can reduce symptoms such as:

  • Jaw pain or tension

  • Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds

  • Limited jaw opening

  • Lockjaw or jaw stiffness

  • Tension headaches or migraines

  • Ear fullness, ringing, or pressure

  • Facial tightness

  • Neck and upper-shoulder pain

  • Stress-related clenching

  • Pain when chewing or speaking

If you’ve been diagnosed with TMJ disorder or are experiencing symptoms, targeted massage can be an effective component of your care plan.

What to Expect During Your TMJ Massage

Assessment of Jaw & Neck Tension

Your RMT will evaluate tension patterns in the jaw, face, neck, and shoulders — all of which can influence TMJ function.

Targeted Muscle Release

Treatment typically includes work on:

  • Masseter

  • Temporalis

  • Pterygoid muscles (external; internal if appropriate)

  • Sternocleidomastoid (SCM)

  • Upper trapezius

  • Suboccipitals (base of skull)

These muscles are often the source of TMJ symptoms.

Extraoral & Intraoral Techniques

With your consent, your therapist may use:

  • Extraoral techniques: working externally on facial muscles

  • Intraoral techniques: gloved internal work to release deeper tension in the pterygoid muscles

Intraoral work is optional but can be especially effective for stubborn TMJ symptoms.

Relaxation & Nervous System Support

Because clenching and tension are often stress-related, techniques that relax the nervous system are incorporated into treatment.

Home Care & Self-Management

Your therapist may provide strategies such as:

  • Jaw relaxation exercises

  • Breathwork

  • Postural adjustments

  • Heat or cold therapy

  • Avoidance habits to reduce strain

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Benefits of TMJ Massage

Reduced Jaw Pain & Tension

Targeted release of muscles directly responsible for clenching or grinding.

Fewer Headaches & Migraines

Many headaches originate from tight jaw or neck muscles.

Improved Jaw Mobility

Helps restore comfortable opening and closing of the mouth.

Relief from Ear Symptoms

May ease ear pressure, ringing, and fullness caused by muscular tension.

Better Sleep Quality

Relaxed jaw muscles may reduce nighttime clenching.

Lower Stress & Nervous System Reset

Promotes calmness and reduces the physical effects of stress.

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Is TMJ Massage Safe?

Yes — when performed by a trained Registered Massage Therapist.
Intraoral work is always:

  • Performed with gloves

  • Done only with your informed consent

  • Gentle and mindful of comfort

  • Adapted for clients with sensitivity or injury

If you have significant dental work, jaw surgeries, or acute inflammation, your therapist will modify treatment accordingly.

How Many Sessions Do You Need?

Most clients see improvement within 1–3 treatments.
For chronic or long-term conditions:

  • Weekly or bi-weekly sessions are recommended initially

  • Maintenance sessions every 4–6 weeks help prevent symptom recurrence

  • Your therapist will tailor a plan to your jaw mechanics and tension patterns

Book Your TMJ Massage Today

Find relief from jaw pain, headaches, clenching, and tension with focused TMJ treatment.

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