Professional Massage Therapy
TMJ Massage
Book NowTMJ massage for jaw pain, tension headaches, and bite dysfunction. Targeted treatment at ACM. Direct billing available.
Reduces jaw pain & clicking
Direct work on the masseter, pterygoids, and surrounding musculature relieves the tension driving TMJ dysfunction and joint noise.
Relieves headaches
TMJ-related tension is a primary driver of tension headaches and facial pain. Releasing the jaw complex often provides rapid relief.
Restores normal movement
Specific intraoral and extraoral techniques restore full, pain-free jaw opening and reduce clenching patterns.
Around 12% of individuals suffer from TMJ disorders. The TMJ is a hinge joint connecting the lower jaw and the temporal bones located on each side of your head, directly in front of the ears. When healthy, the TMJ is flexible, allowing the jaw to move freely up and down, and side to side. In turn, this allows for easy chewing, speaking, and yawning. When a person has TMJ disorder, the joint is stiff and any movement can be extremely painful. The disorder can also cause pain in the neck and shoulders. A TMJ Massage will help to relieve the painful symptoms of TMJ disorders and get your jaw back to functioning as normal, eliminating pain, restoring jaw motion, and decreasing stress and tension.
What to Expect During Your TMJ Massage Appointment
If you are experiencing irritation, pain, stiffness or tenderness in your jaw area, difficulty eating or talking, earaches, hearing problems or dizziness, or have been diagnosed with a TMJ disorder, a TMJ Massage is the right service for you.
Your treatment will begin with a short assessment which will include ROM and strength testing. Your massage therapist will go over your condition, health history, pain levels, and lifestyle, and any issues you want to address. You may or may not be asked to partially undress and lie under the linens on the table.
During the treatment, your massage therapist will work on the muscles that surround the temporomandibular joint. This may include the muscles in your neck, shoulders, and face. The therapist will also work with gloved hands on the inside and the outside of your mouth to access your TMJ and release the inner workings of the jaw. In TMJ Massage, your therapist will use a technique called myofascial release (MFR). MFR is a form of massage that involves the application of sustained compression over trigger points in your face. Your individual treatment plan will be determined by what you present both verbally and what is ascertained from palpating your soft tissues.
You may feel some discomfort or tenderness during a TMJ massage. It is important to maintain a dialogue on your comfort levels so your therapist can make adjustments with the pressure and techniques being utilized.
After the massage, it is important to take care of your jaw and avoid activities that may exacerbate your symptoms. This may include avoiding hard or chewy foods, practicing good posture, and avoiding excessive jaw movements (such as chewing gum or clenching your teeth). Your massage therapist may be able to provide additional tips for managing your symptoms and preventing further damage to your jaw. A return date for your treatment plan will also be suggested to keep you on track.
Case Study: Relieving Jaw Tension and Everyday Discomfort From TMJ Issues
The client was dealing with ongoing jaw pain, stiffness, and discomfort that made chewing, talking, and moving their jaw uncomfortable. Tightness and tenderness in the jaw and surrounding muscles contributed to daily tension and reduced mobility. TMJ massage was used to target these tight areas in the jaw, neck, and face to help release tension and improve movement. Treatment usually involved a series of sessions over time, depending on how the client responded.
Book TMJ Massage at Your Location
TMJ Massage is available at our Edmonton clinics and Sherwood Park location. Same-day appointments are often available — book online or call 780-433-0550.
What to know
Before Your Visit
Arrive Early
A few minutes before your appointment lets you complete paperwork and settle in before treatment begins.
Eat Light
Avoid heavy meals for 1–2 hours beforehand. A light snack is fine — an empty stomach can cause lightheadedness.
Stay Hydrated
Drink water before and after. Hydration helps flush out waste released during treatment and reduces post-session soreness.
Dress Comfortably
Wear loose-fitting or athletic clothing that allows free movement. Your therapist will advise on draping based on your treatment.
Communicate
Share your concerns, injuries, and goals before the session starts — and keep the dialogue open throughout so adjustments can be made in real time.
Rest After
Skip intense activity after your session and give your body time to integrate the treatment.
Follow Aftercare
Your therapist may prescribe specific stretches, exercises, or self-care strategies. Following through ensures the best long-term results.
Medical Clearance
If you are pregnant, undergoing cancer treatment, or recently injured, consult your healthcare provider before booking. Your safety comes first.
What we treat
Conditions
We Treat
Most of our clients aren't athletes. They're people with persistent pain who've tried stretching and rolling and want something that actually works. If your condition isn't listed, call us — your therapist will assess at your first visit.
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What Our Clients Say
"I had an excellent experience with my massage therapist Ece Taylan. She created a calm, welcoming atmosphere that immediately put me at ease and the treatment was exceptional."
Seray
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"Marisol is truly an exceptional massage therapist! She made me feel comfortable, welcomed, and completely cared for. I left feeling lighter, relaxed, and with improved mobility."
Lesley Turnbull
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"Rebecca is very knowledgeable and caring. She takes the time to listen to your concerns and offers a great treatment plan. She has a great touch."
Tara Gamble
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"Tanya D. is amazing!! I've had chronic neck/back issues for close to 20 years, and have never had the type of relief as I've had since seeing her over the past year."
Kaila Tipton
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Got questions?
FAQ
What causes TMJ dysfunction?
Common causes include teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), stress, dental misalignment, jaw injury, and postural issues in the neck and upper back. Often multiple factors are present simultaneously.
Does TMJ massage involve work inside the mouth?
It can. Intraoral massage accesses the medial pterygoid and other deep jaw muscles that can't be reached from outside. It's always explained and consented before the therapist proceeds — you're in control at every step.
How many sessions does it typically take?
Many clients notice meaningful improvement after 2–3 sessions. Chronic or longstanding TMJ issues may require 4–6 sessions for sustained results. Your therapist will track your progress and adjust the plan accordingly.
Should I see a dentist or a massage therapist for TMJ?
Both are often beneficial. A dentist can assess dental occlusion and recommend a night guard if bruxism is a factor. Massage therapy addresses the muscular and myofascial component of TMJ dysfunction. Many clients benefit from both working together.