Temporal Mandibular Joint (TMJ)

What is the TMJ?

You have two temporomandibular joints (TMJ), one on each side of your face,
which connect your lower jaw to your skull.

These unique joints work together with the surrounding muscles, ligaments, and tissues
to allow you to speak, chew, yawn, and move your jaw with ease.

What is TMJ Dysfunction?

TMJ dysfunction is a condition affecting the jaw joints, &/or the muscles that control jaw movement.

Changes to the jaws structure or the way it functions can lead to pain, restricted movement and dysfunction.

Common types of TMJ dysfunction include:

  • Internal joint derangement – altered movement of structures within the joint, such as the articular disc.

  • Joint disorders – conditions affecting the TMJ, such as osteoarthritis or inflammatory arthritis.

  • Myofascial pain – pain from the muscles controlling jaw movement, often managed with exercises, manual therapy, and self-management strategies.

The Treatment

Everyone’s experience of TMJ dysfunction is unique, so each treatment is personalised around
your symptoms, goals, and needs.

At The Salty Sanctuary, we take a holistic approach, considering the relationship between the jaw, neck, shoulders, posture, and the body as a whole.

Your treatment may include a combination of:

  • Soft tissue & trigger point therapy to reduce muscle tension.

  • Gentle jaw techniques, including intra-oral release where appropriate.

  • Dry needling (if suitable) to support muscular pain relief.

  • Advice and self-management strategies to help you manage symptoms outside of treatment.

Every treatment is adapted to your needs
and delivered with care.

I will always discuss everything with you and guide you through each step to ensure you feel comfortable, informed and listened to.

I always recommend seeing your dentist first for any necessary X-rays or scans to rule out any underlying conditions.

Book here for TMJ

Aftercare tips & advice

After your session, your body may continue to adjust, it is normal to feel mild tenderness or discomfort around the areas of the body that have been treated.

  • Rest

  • Hydrate

  • Be mindful of jaw habits (e.g clenching)

  • Follow personalised advice provided after treatment

Everyone’s recovery is different, and finding the right combination of treatment and self-care takes time.

Enquire Now

  • Paige has helped with my jaw pain enormously!

    Paige has helped me out enormously with jaw pain which I was originally told by doctors could not be treated without an operation.

    However after only a few sessions with Paige the pain almost ceased entirely - she is also really lovely to chat to on our sessions, would highly recommend!

    Emily A | Google Review

  • Paige is such an intuitive and warm osteopath!

    Paige is such an intuitive and warm osteopath!

    Having never been to one before, I always feel in safe hands and she offers really holistic, practical and personalised care and advice - both for the short and long term.

    Can't recommend her enough!

    Olivia B | Google Review

  • Feel like a new woman!

    I was recommended Paige from a friend & I am so glad that I booked the appointment!

    I have struggled with headaches, jaw pain and discomfort often waking me at night. Paige quickly identified the issues and spoke through everything so I understood. After the first session I was a little sore but then felt SO much better!

    I have had a few sessions now and can see so much progress!

    Would highly recommend booking in to see Paige!

    Client C | Review

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Your first appointment is 75 minutes and includes a consultation, assessment, and personalised treatment plan.

    I will take the time to understand your symptoms, jaw function, and any contributing factors before creating a treatment tailored to you.

    Treatment may include massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and gentle jaw techniques where appropriate.

    I will guide you through each step, ensuring you feel comfortable, supported, and informed throughout.

    Follow-up appointments are 45 minutes and focus on continuing your personalised care and adapting treatment as your body responds.

    Your wellbeing and safety are always the priority. In rare cases where treatment is not appropriate, I will guide you towards the most suitable support or further investigation if needed.

  • TMJ dysfunction can develop for many different reasons, and often there is not one single cause. It is usually a combination of factors that may contribute to jaw tension, discomfort, and changes in how the jaw moves.

    Some contributing factors may include:

    • Stress and tension, which can increase muscle tightness and jaw clenching.

    • Jaw habits, such as clenching or grinding your teeth (bruxism).

    • Injury or trauma to the jaw, face, or neck.

    • Changes within the joint, such as irritation, arthritis, or disc-related issues.

    • Posture and muscle imbalances, which may influence how the jaw, neck, and surrounding muscles work together.

  • TMJ treatment may not be suitable for everyone. I recommend seeking advice from your dentist or GP first if you have experienced recent jaw trauma, significant jaw locking, swelling, infection, or have any red flag symptoms.

    If you are unsure whether this treatment is right for you, please get in touch before booking.

  • Everyone’s TMJ journey is different. The number of treatments needed depends on your symptoms, how long you have been experiencing them, and how your body responds.

    I will review your progress throughout your journey and adapt your treatment plan to suit your individual needs, goals, and financial circumstances.

  • Some areas may feel tender or sensitive, especially where there is muscle tension, but techniques and pressure will always be adapted to your comfort. I will guide you through each step to ensure you feel relaxed and in control of your treatment.

    Nothing will be done without your consent.