The Benefits of Dry Needling For Jaw Pain

The Benefits of Dry Needling for TMJ Pain and Dysfunction

Expert Physiotherapy for Jaw Pain in Edinburgh

If you experience jaw pain, jaw clicking, or difficulty opening your mouth fully, you may be suffering from temporomandibular disorder (TMD). This condition affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jaw to the skull, and can lead to chronic facial pain, headaches, and discomfort when chewing or speaking.

At The Physiotherapy Place, we offer dry needling, a highly effective treatment similar to acupuncture, to relieve TMJ pain, reduce muscle tension, and restore normal jaw function. If you’re struggling with TMD symptoms, dry needling could be the key to lasting relief.

What Causes TMJ Pain and Dysfunction?

TMD can develop due to:

• Teeth grinding (bruxism) or jaw clenching

• Stress and muscle tension in the face, neck, and shoulders

• Poor posture, which affects jaw alignment

• Injury or trauma to the jaw

• Arthritis or joint inflammation

Without treatment, jaw pain and jaw clicking can worsen, making everyday activities like eating and talking increasingly uncomfortable.

How Dry Needling Can Help

Dry needling is a technique used in physiotherapy that involves inserting thin needles into tight muscles or trigger points to release tension, reduce pain, and improve function. While it is similar to acupuncture, dry needling is based on modern musculoskeletal science and is specifically used for pain relief and muscle relaxation.

Key Benefits of Dry Needling for TMD and Jaw Pain

1. Relieves Jaw Muscle Tension

• Dry needling helps release tight muscles around the jaw, reducing pain and stiffness.

2. Reduces Jaw Clicking and Popping

• By relaxing overactive muscles, dry needling can help minimize jaw clicking and improve movement.

3. Eases Facial and Head Pain

• Many people with TMD experience facial pain and headaches—dry needling can provide targeted relief.

4. Improves Jaw Mobility

• Patients often notice better jaw movement and reduced discomfort after just a few sessions.

5. Drug-Free, Non-Invasive Treatment

Dry needling is a natural alternative to medication, providing long-term relief without the need for painkillers.

What to Expect During a Dry Needling Session

At our Edinburgh and Musselburgh physiotherapy clinic, a typical dry needling session includes:

1. Assessment: Identifying key trigger points causing jaw pain, TMD symptoms, or facial pain.

2. Treatment: Inserting fine needles into the affected muscles to stimulate release.

3. Aftercare: Providing guidance on stretches, posture, and relaxation techniques to maintain results.

Some patients feel immediate relief, while others experience gradual improvement over multiple sessions.

Book a Dry Needling Appointment in Edinburgh

If you’re struggling with jaw pain, jaw clicking, or TMD, dry needling could help restore normal jaw function and relieve discomfort. At our Edinburgh physiotherapy clinic, we specialize in treating TMJ pain with advanced, evidence-based techniques.

Call us today to book an appointment: 0131 665 0619

Book online here: The Physiotherapy Place – Book an Appointment

Take the first step toward pain-free jaw movement—schedule your dry needling consultation today!