The TMJ (temporomandibular joint) joins the jaw with the skull (head).
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aw clenching and tooth grinding (especially at night) aggravate the TMJ and may cause severe pain. It can radiate to your ear or the whole face and trigger strong headaches, swelling and even lock jaw.
In Chinese medicine, this kind of pain is usually caused by Qi (energy) and Blood Stagnation. At night, during sleep, when we process our emotions, the body tries to move this blockage and attempts to ‘chew away’ any anger and frustration.
Acupuncture and herbs will focus on releasing, harmonising, moving and relaxing the affected muscles and meridians, improve the flow of Qi and Blood and work on the underlying emotional factors.