In addition to the well-known forms of headache, there is a lesser-known form of headache that comes from the jaw or Temporal Mandibular Joint (TMJ). Headache from the jaw is characterised as a headache that is felt above the eyes and / or on the side of the head/temple region. Sometimes one also experiences the headache at the back of the head, just below the skull and upper neck.
Jaw pain, a limited or abnormal mouth opening or cracking sounds are common symptoms of jaw complaints. Many cases of neck pain, headaches, earaches, toothaches and facial complaints also find their cause in the wider jaw region. Because the inner ear is connected to the jaw, chronic earache and ringing in the ears (tinnitus) in some cases is caused by underlying dysfunctions in the jaw.
Did you know that more than 300,000 Dutch people walk around with headaches related to TMD (temporal mandibular dysfunction)?
The irritation of the jaw joint or disc causes a tension and muscle spasm, which puts pressure on the facial/trigeminal nerve and irritates it. This can cause pain in the jaw joint.
Chiropractic can be a very effective treatment method for TMD. A chiropractor will utilise joint corrections of the spine to get the spine and neck back in balance, whilst working on the jaw tension. This gives the jaw room to function properly, which quickly reduces the headache.