Muscle Spasm

Muscle Spasms and TMJ Disorders

Muscle spasms are involuntary contractions of muscles that can cause significant discomfort and are often linked to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. In the context of TMJ, these spasms typically affect the muscles responsible for jaw movement, including the masseter, temporalis, and pterygoid muscles. The tension and overuse of these muscles, often due to jaw misalignment, bruxism (teeth grinding), or stress, can lead to painful spasms that interfere with daily activities such as chewing, speaking, and even resting comfortably.

Common symptoms of TMJ-related muscle spasms include sharp or persistent jaw pain, difficulty opening or closing the mouth, facial tenderness, headaches, neck stiffness, and sometimes earaches or a sensation of fullness in the ears. Patients may also experience a “Locking” sensation in the jaw or hear clicking and popping sounds when moving their jaw. These symptoms can significantly impact quality of life, making it challenging to enjoy meals, speak clearly, or get restful sleep.

How We Treat TMJ-Related Muscle Spasms

At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Temecula and Hemet, we take a comprehensive approach to treating TMJ-related muscle spasms. Our treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s specific needs, starting with a thorough evaluation to identify the underlying causes of muscle tension and discomfort. We offer custom oral appliances, such as splints and TMJ orthotics, to help stabilize the jaw and reduce strain on the muscles. Additionally, our therapy programs incorporate advanced techniques, including myofunctional therapy, trigger point injections, and cold laser therapy, to promote muscle relaxation and healing. By addressing the root cause of TMJ dysfunction and providing targeted treatment, we help patients experience lasting relief from muscle spasms and restore normal jaw function.