Unraveling the Knot: When Neck and Shoulder Pain Stems from Your TMJ
Your neck and shoulder pain could actually be coming from your jaw. When the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is strained or out of balance, it can tighten nearby muscles and create discomfort that spreads to the neck, shoulders, and upper back. This connection often goes unnoticed, leaving many people searching for lasting neck pain relief without realizing the root cause lies in the jaw.
According to the American Migraine Foundation, pain related to the TMJ may affect up to 10% of the U.S. population, showing how common this condition is. At Dental Care Burke, Dr. Bernard W. Lynch and our team help patients uncover and treat this link through effective TMJ treatment options designed to ease pain and restore comfort.
In this blog, we'll explore how TMJ issues can create knots in your neck and shoulders, what these knots feel like, and how professional care can bring relief.
TMJ and Its Connection to Neck and Shoulder Pain
The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, connects your lower jaw to your skull and allows smooth movement when you chew, yawn, and talk. It's one of the most active joints in the body, supported by muscles and ligaments that help guide your jaw's motion. When this joint becomes strained, misaligned, or inflamed, it can affect more than just the jaw itself.
The muscles that control the TMJ also connect to areas around the neck, shoulders, and head. If those muscles become tense or overworked, they can create tightness or referred pain in nearby regions. This is why people with TMJ problems often experience stiffness or soreness that extends beyond the jaw.
Here at
Dental Care Burke, Dr. Bernard W. Lynch uses advanced diagnostic techniques to understand how jaw function affects the surrounding muscles. By identifying the underlying source of pain, he can create a treatment plan that targets both comfort and long-term function.
Can TMJ Cause Knots in the Neck?
TMJ dysfunction can absolutely cause knots in the neck. When the jaw joint is not working properly, the surrounding muscles often compensate by tightening to keep the joint stable.
Over time, this strain leads to small, painful spots known as trigger points or muscle knots. These knots can form in the neck, shoulders, and even the upper back, creating tension that feels deep and persistent.
People who clench or grind their teeth are especially prone to this problem. Constant muscle engagement puts pressure on the jaw and nearby muscles, which can cause them to spasm or stiffen. Poor posture, stress, or jaw misalignment can make the discomfort worse.
Many patients assume their
neck pain starts with posture or sleep position, but the real issue can come from the jaw. At our clinic, we help to identify this connection so patients can find lasting relief through personalized care and focused TMJ therapy.
What Does a TMJ Knot Feel Like?
A TMJ-related knot often feels like a tight, sore, or aching spot around the neck, shoulders, or base of the skull. The pain may feel deep rather than surface-level, sometimes spreading toward the head or upper back. Many people describe it as a constant dull ache that worsens when they:
- Chew
- Yawn
- Move their jaw
These knots can also create a feeling of stiffness or heaviness in the neck, making it difficult to turn the head comfortably. Some experience tension headaches or sensitivity near the jaw and temples. Unlike ordinary muscle soreness that fades quickly, TMJ-related knots tend to linger because the muscles are constantly working to stabilize the jaw.
The discomfort may increase during times of stress or teeth clenching. Over time, the pain can become more noticeable in both the jaw and neck areas. Recognizing these signs early is important for reducing strain and improving overall muscle balance.
Common Causes Behind TMJ-Related Neck and Shoulder Pain
Several everyday habits and conditions can lead to TMJ-related neck and shoulder pain. One of the most common is teeth grinding or clenching, often linked to stress or anxiety. This constant pressure strains the jaw muscles and radiates tension into the neck and shoulders.
Jaw misalignment or an uneven bite can have a similar effect, forcing nearby muscles to overwork to keep the joint in balance.
Injury or trauma to the jaw, such as from a fall or car accident, may also lead to lasting tension. Arthritis can inflame the joint and surrounding tissues, making movement painful. Poor posture, especially from long hours looking at screens, places extra strain on both the jaw and neck muscles.
Even daily habits like chewing gum, biting nails, or resting your chin on your hand can make the discomfort worse. Because several of these causes often overlap, a professional evaluation is important to identify the main source and guide proper treatment.
How Dental Care Burke Treats TMJ-Related Pain
At Dental Care Burke, we take a personalized and comprehensive approach to treating TMJ-related pain. Our first step is to identify the source of the problem through a detailed exam, X-rays, and joint evaluation. This helps us understand how your jaw moves, how your bite aligns, and how muscle tension may be contributing to discomfort in your neck and shoulders.
Treatment often includes a custom-made mouthguard or splint designed to reduce clenching and grinding while keeping the jaw in a more relaxed position. We may also recommend Dental TENSing therapy, a gentle technique that uses mild electrical stimulation to relax tight muscles and improve circulation. In some cases, restorative dental work helps correct bite alignment and relieve uneven pressure on the joint.
Beyond treatment, we focus on prevention through guidance on posture and stress management. Our goal is to reduce pain, restore balance, and help you return to a more comfortable daily routine.
When to See a TMJ Specialist
Simply put, if you experience ongoing pain or stiffness in your jaw, neck, or shoulders that doesn't go away on its own, it's time to see a TMJ specialist. Frequent headaches, ear pain, or clicking and popping sounds when you open or close your mouth can also point to a TMJ problem.
Some people notice their jaw locking in place or feeling tight when chewing or talking, while others experience pressure around the temples or upper back.
If these symptoms persist or worsen, professional evaluation is important.TMJ issues often start small but can lead to chronic muscle tension, worn-down teeth, and long-term discomfort if left untreated. A specialist can pinpoint the exact cause and create a treatment plan that targets both the joint and the surrounding muscles.
At Dental Care Burke, we offer in-depth TMJ consultations that include imaging, examination, and personalized recommendations to
help you find relief and restore normal jaw function before the condition becomes more serious.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does TMJ Pain Last?
TMJ pain can vary from person to person. Some people experience occasional discomfort that lasts only a few days, while others may have chronic pain that continues for months or even years.
The duration often depends on the underlying cause, such as jaw misalignment, teeth grinding, or muscle tension. Early evaluation can help prevent the pain from becoming long-term.
Can TMJ Affect Sleep Quality?
Yes, TMJ issues can interfere with sleep. Clenching or grinding at night may cause discomfort that wakes you up, and muscle tension can make it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position. Addressing TMJ problems can improve both rest and overall daily energy levels.
Are Children Susceptible to TMJ Disorders?
Children can develop TMJ problems, although it is less common than in adults. Early signs may include difficulty chewing, frequent headaches, or jaw clicking. Pediatric TMJ treatment often focuses on gentle interventions and monitoring growth to prevent long-term issues.
Can TMJ Lead to Ear Problems?
Yes,
TMJ dysfunction can cause ringing in the ears, pressure, or even temporary hearing changes. The joint's close proximity to the ear means inflammation or muscle tension can create these uncomfortable sensations.
Is Physical Therapy Helpful for TMJ Pain?
Physical therapy can
support TMJ treatment by improving posture, strengthening jaw and neck muscles, and reducing tension. Targeted exercises and stretches may complement dental interventions for long-term relief.
What Role Does Stress Play in TMJ?
Stress often worsens TMJ symptoms because it increases muscle tension and encourages clenching or grinding. Managing stress with
relaxation techniques or mindfulness can reduce strain on the jaw and surrounding muscles.
How Do Dental Clinics Approach Pain Relief?
Dental clinics may use a combination of strategies for dental pain management, including custom mouthguards, joint therapy, and non-invasive treatments.
Personalized care ensures the source of discomfort is addressed rather than just masking symptoms.
Schedule Your TMJ Consultation With Us
Neck and shoulder pain caused by TMJ issues can make daily activities uncomfortable and frustrating. The good news is that with the right care, relief is possible.
At Dental Care Burke, we focus on identifying the root cause of your discomfort and providing personalized treatment plans that address both the jaw and surrounding muscles. Early intervention can prevent chronic tension and improve overall comfort.
Call us at (703) 596-1555 or
schedule an appointment online to start your journey toward lasting relief from neck and shoulder pain.
Dr. Bernard Lynch
Joshua Kibrom
Michael Gebre
