I have written previously about the jaw, and what we can understand from its functioning about the health of our emotions and self expression. Read it again here

Let's look at balancing the jaw on an emotional level more closely, through a structural understanding of the joint.

The temporal-mandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most used joints in the human body. It connects the jaw to the skull, and functions to help open and close the mouth. Good TMJ function is essential for the human activities of eating and talking, for example.

Anatomically, the TMJ is also one of the more complex joints. It is considered both hinging and gliding, which allows the extra movement for eating and communicating. Separating the jaw from the temporal area of the skull is a little intra-articular disc. This disc is adaptable, allowing the hinging and gliding of the joint without dislocation, and also decreasing the friction between the bones.

Because of its high usage, the TMJ has a lot of structural support such as muscles, ligaments and tendons, in conjunction with a high blood and neural supply. The high quantity of structures in such a small space can sometimes lead to complications.

Often the cause of TMJ dysfunction is unknown. Physiologically there may be a structural cause present from birth, erosion or arthritis of the joint, or stress or trauma to the joint. It is recommended that you consult your GP to determine whether the dysfunction is structural.

Many symptoms of dysfunction include difficulties relating to the jaw, ears, eyes, mouth, teeth, neck, shoulders and head. These include locked jaw (open/closed), clicking jaw, grating sounds, pain behind the eyes, sensitivity to light, ear pain, vertigo, headaches, painful scalp, pain in cheek muscles, clenched teeth, grinding teeth at night, unable to open mouth fully, stiff neck, back and shoulder ache, sore throat and changes in voice, as well as other symptoms.

Overall, a really restrictive list of aches and pains in the sensitive head and throat area.

Structurally the TMJ is normally treated conservatively, at least in the beginning. Through manual therapy and exercises it is possible to encourage muscle relaxation and increase movement and stability, which can highly aid the symptoms. I highly recommend osteopath Hannah Parr in Oxfordshire (contact details at end).

There are also lifestyle changes you can make during the aggravated period, such as staying away from hard foods or biting into fruits, wearing a splint to prevent clenching, or anti-inflammatory medicine as necessary.

When the dysfunction does not have a structural cause, or there is an emotional component in addition to the structural difficulty, further exploration may be necessary to explore the root of the problem.

Metaphysically, there may be a number of factors, given how the TMJ is so complex.

How are you being nourished or nourishing yourself?

What is difficult to take in or start to digest?

Are you feeling joyful or have you lost your joy?

When are you afraid to express your true feelings or true self?

What needs to be said?

At a deep level, dysfunction may relate to unexpressed emotions, withdrawal of the self or fear of expressing one's true self. You may have lost a sense of power, your words were ignored, or you may have difficulty in voicing your opinions.

Perhaps you were made to feel guilt or shame for speaking up. And today, you find communication anxiety-provoking and have trouble expressing your needs.

At an emotional and spiritual level, difficulties in the jaw can also be the suppression of trauma and abuse. This can occur because of feeling attacked, unable to say "No" or your boundaries being crossed. Emotions like anger, rage and frustration may be trapped in the system.

Even when the cause is structural, or a result of trauma or accident, you may find it helpful to address the emotional states underneath the dysfunction in order to regain your natural balance. Attention to the emotional component(s), alongside treating the symptoms, is crucial to bringing relief, healing and permanent change.

In the process of Creative Kinesiology, we will check the energy flow in the jaw and associated muscles, identify any specific emotions that arise, and gain an understanding of the origin and factors contributing to your symptoms. We will then offer healing to your body through acupressure points, massage and natural healing.

Creative Kinesiology works to help you find your balance at all levels, enabling you to access your true emotions, find your joy, become centred in your true self and communicate authentically.

Please note that you may require more than one session to work through the emotional components of any difficulty, particularly if this is a chronic or long-term condition.

Gentle emotional healing and balancing with bryony@creativesoultherapies.com

For structural support contact Hannah Parr, Osteopath in Oxfordshire, on parr.osteopath@gmail.com

Always consult your GP for an assessment if you suspect you have TMJ dysfunction.