Introduction

Jaw pain, clicking, and tension can make daily activities like chewing, talking, or even smiling uncomfortable. For many, the source is TMJ dysfunction — a condition affecting the temporomandibular joint and the muscles around it.

At Central Ohio Spine & Joint in Westerville, Ohio, we’ve seen firsthand how dry needling can provide relief for patients with TMJ pain. By releasing tight jaw and neck muscles, this evidence-based treatment helps restore comfort and improve function.

What is TMJ Dysfunction?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull. Dysfunction can occur when the joint or surrounding muscles are irritated, leading to:

• Jaw pain or tenderness
  
• Clicking or popping when opening the mouth
  
• Headaches or earaches
  
• Limited range of motion
  
• Pain while chewing
  

TMJ dysfunction often involves not only the joint but also muscle tension in the jaw, face, and neck — which is where dry needling can help.

How Dry Needling Helps TMJ Pain

Dry needling targets the trigger points in muscles that contribute to TMJ pain and dysfunction, including:

• Masseter (jaw muscle used for chewing)
  
• Temporalis (side of the head)
  
• Pterygoid muscles (inside the jaw)
  
• Neck and upper shoulder muscles that refer pain to the jaw
  

Benefits include:

• Decreased muscle tension
  
• Reduced jaw pain and headaches
  
• Improved ability to open and close the mouth
  
• Less jaw clicking and popping
  
• Long-term relief when combined with corrective exercises
  

Why Dry Needling is Effective for TMJ Dysfunction

TMJ dysfunction is often caused by muscle overactivity and tension. Traditional treatments like night guards, medication, or even injections may not address this.

Dry needling provides a direct reset to overactive muscles, restoring balance and function. At COSJ, we often combine dry needling with:

• Chiropractic adjustments (spine/jaw alignment)
  
• Rehab exercises to restore jaw control
  
• Posture correction to reduce strain from neck/shoulder dysfunction
  

What to Expect During TMJ Dry Needling at COSJ

1. Evaluation: We assess your jaw, neck, and posture.
   
2. Targeted Needling: Thin, sterile needles are placed in jaw/neck trigger points.
   
3. Muscle Release: Patients often feel immediate relief of tightness.
   
4. Reinforcement: Corrective exercises to ensure lasting results.
   

Sessions are typically quick and well-tolerated, with only mild soreness afterward.

FAQs: Dry Needling for TMJ in Westerville

Does dry needling hurt in the jaw?
Most patients feel only mild pressure or twitch response — soreness resolves quickly.

How many sessions will I need?
Most patients see improvement within 2–4 sessions, depending on severity.

Is dry needling safe around the face?
Yes. Our providers are highly trained in TMJ-specific dry needling techniques.

Will this fix my jaw clicking?
In many cases, yes. By reducing muscle tension, clicking and popping are significantly improved.

If you’re struggling with jaw pain, clicking, or headaches related to TMJ dysfunction, dry needling may be the solution you’ve been searching for.

📍 Central Ohio Spine & Joint
768 Park Meadow Rd.
Westerville, Ohio 43081
📞 (614) 392-2730

👉 Schedule your $49 diagnostic scan today and see how dry needling can help TMJ pain.