Are Migraines & TMJ Connected?

There are some studies that show that certain migraines can be linked to the temporomandibular joint. This specific joint, the temporomandibular joint, is primarily responsible for all actions involving the mouth such as chewing, talking, opening, or closing of the mouth. When this specific joint goes into spasm, because of fatigue, it can negatively impact the nerves that are connected to it, and this can in turn be connected to causing migraines headaches.

How are these Nerves Connected?

The nerves of the temporomandibular joint are connected to the Trigeminal nerve, which is the largest of all of the cranial nerves. The Trigeminal nerve is responsible for affecting chewing, talking, breathing, kissing, teeth, and even the sinuses because each of these functions are all connected to this joint through the mouth. Research has shown that the Trigeminal nerve is accountable for up to 40% of the nerve functioning that takes place in the mouth and face. When the temporomandibular joint is misaligned and/or not completing proper function it can cause what is referred to as “TMD” (also known as Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction), and in turn can affect the Trigeminal nerve which is often one of the main causes of migraine headaches.

How are Migraine Headaches & TMD Connected?

As stated earlier the Trigeminal nerve is responsible for many of the actions of the face and mouth. When this nerve is affected by TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction) it can cause severe physical damage and can present by causing symptoms such as the following:
• Sore Jaw Muscles
• Facial Pain
• Pain in the Neck, Head, and/or Shoulders
• Sensitive and/or Sore Teeth
• Migraine Headaches
• Ear Ringing
• Jaw Clicking and/or Popping
• Worn Teeth
• Chipped Teeth
• Limited Movement of the Jaw

These symptoms are common links to migraine headaches as well. If left untreated the effects of “TMD” will progressively worsen over time and can cause the nerves associated to become overly sensitive and even inflamed. Because all of the nerves are connected to one another in bundles this can have a negative impact on the symptoms of TMD and even connect TMD to migraine headaches. The connection between TMD and migraine headaches comes when the strained muscles in the head, face and neck cause migraine symptoms that can be so painful and severe that they are diagnoses as migraines. This is why proper diagnosis is important among those who may be experiencing migraine symptoms in order to rule out underlying conditions.
How to Treat TMD Related Migraine Headaches

If a person is experiencing symptoms of migraine headaches (that could be caused by TMD) it is important that proper diagnosis be achieved. There are many different treatment options available to individuals who may be experiencing TMD related migraine headaches. However, in the meantime of waiting for an appointment it is possible to help relieve some of the symptoms of TMD related migraine headaches with some of the following home remedies:

• Check Your Habits – If a person has bad habits such as nail biting, gum chewing, cheek biter, or teeth grinding this can be an indication of TMD as each of these bad habits can overwork the Temporomandibular Joint and cause spasms.
• Massage The Join – If the pain of the migraine headaches or TMD seems to be radiating form the Temporomandibular Joint then massage of this joint can help to relieve some of the symptoms. In order to located the Temporomandibular Joint place the middle and index fingers in front of the ear and open the mouth, when a protrusion is felt in that area the Temporomandibular Joint has been found. In order to massage the Temporomandibular Joint small circular kneading motions, especially when performed before bedtime, can help to relieve the symptoms of TMD or migraine headaches.
• Using a Warm Compress – another home remedy for TMD or migraine headaches is by using warm compresses by rotating ten minutes on and ten minutes off of the Temporomandibular Joint on both sides of the face.
• Try Sleeping on the Back – by sleeping on the back it will ensure that even pressure is being distributed to the Temporomandibular Joint. Another helpful hint is to use a towel that is rolled and placed under the knees (or a pillow) at night to prevent from rolling from side to side.

Tags: Acupuncture, chiropractic care, Chronic migraine, migraine headaches, Migraine Support Formula, natural treatment, preventative migraine treatment, severe migraine pain