5 Questions to ask yourself about your Headaches

23% of households today contain at least one migraine sufferer (6% of men and 18% of women). These family members, and 60% of those with tension-type headaches, have to manage reductions in social activities and work capacity, on top of the pain (Headache Australia, 2017).

Headache can have many causes; one of the most common being dysfunction of the Temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The TMJ and headaches can be complex in nature and if left untreated can lead to long term problems, such as migraines. Seeking the treatment from an expert is a must to get the right diagnosis, treatment and advice for your situation. 

 

5 questions you should ask to see if your TMJ is the causes of your Headache

 

Does your jaw feel tight?

Over activation and stimulation of the muscles of the TMJ can cause tension and tightness to build up within the TMJ muscles, creating not only TMJ pain but also referred pain to the head and face. E.g. The Temporalis muscle

Do you get a restriction in TMJ movement or locking?

Restrictions and complete locking of the jaw can cause pain and inflammation not only locally within the TMJ, but also refer pain to the head, causing headaches.

Does your jaw click?

Clicking is a common symptom of TMJ dysfunction and paired with a headache, can be the cause of the headache. Clicking of the TMJ can be a sign of imbalances and impaired function within the TMJ. These clicks can be heard and felt with or without pain and be on one or both sides of the jaw.

 Does your ear feel blocked?

The TMJ and ear are located directly next to each other. Tension within the muscles of the jaw can cause tension inside the ear, giving the sensation of blocked ears.

 Does your jaw feel misaligned?

Misalignment of the jaw can be a sign of muscular and/ or joint dysfunctions within the TMJ. These misalignments can also lead to changes in posture within the neck and back. Postural changes are a common cause of headaches.

 

Have you answered yes to any of these questions?

If so, you could have TMJ disorder.

Get the diagnosis and treatment you need from Melbourne TMJ solutions. We are a highly experienced and trusted team, collectively treating a variety of TMJ issues for over a decade. Come in and see for yourself why we are Melbourne’s #1 TMJ solutions clinic.