Originally published April 20, 2017. Updated for clarity and current standards on January 20, 2026.
TMJ pain often involves more than the jaw joint alone—tight chewing muscles, neck/shoulder tension, headaches, and stress-related clenching can all play a role. At Complete Oriental Medical Care in Edina, MN, Steven Sonmore, L.Ac. focuses on reducing muscle guarding and helping the nervous system settle, so the jaw can move more comfortably. Acupuncture care is individualized after a detailed first visit, with a plan based on your specific pattern and triggers.
Do you or a loved one suffer from TMJ or Temporomadibular Joint Disorder? Do you grind your teeth at night (a condition called bruxism) only to wake up in pain the next morning? Do you have pain in your jaw, face, neck and/or shoulders? If so, you may be one of many who suffer from TMJ Disorder or TMD.
What Causes Jaw Pain?
Temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders (TMJ) The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the area where the jaw and skull connect at a ball and socket hinge in front of the ears. This joint controls chewing and talking so it is one of the most frequently used joints in your body. TMJ can be caused by:
• Head or face injuries
• Displacement of disc between jawbone and socket
• Arthritis
TMJ Symptoms We Commonly See
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Clicking/popping, limited opening, chewing pain
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Neck/shoulder tension
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Night grinding (bruxism)
Often, more than one factor is present.
What the Research Says
Research at the Ribeirão Preto Dental School at São Paulo University in Brazil found after 3 months of acupuncture treatments that patients with TMJ experienced significant pain relief, increased strength of their bite and decreased EMG activity of the masticatory muscles.
17 patients were studied using acupuncture points for TMJ. EMG measures were acquired before and after the treatment. The data collected at rest, protrusion, left and right laterality and clenching were normalized by maximum voluntary contraction.
As a leading acupuncture clinic in the Edina/Twin Cities area, we use some of the most effective treatments to treat your jaw pain, eliminate headaches and associated symptoms. After an initial consultation where we diagnose your TMJ, we use special acupuncture treatments to relax your jaw, face and neck muscles. Imagine your tension melting away while you rest comfortably.
What to Expect at Your First Visit (Edina Clinic)
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Jaw/neck/shoulder tension review
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Treatment approach and frequency (set expectations)
Self-Care Between Visits
We provide guidance for self care between your acupuncture treatments including eating soft foods during flare-ups, avoiding gum, gentle stretching/massage, and stress reduction techniques.
When to See a Dentist or Medical Provider First
If you have any trauma, suspected fracture, infection, severe locking, unexplained swelling, neurological symptoms it would be wise to contact your dentist or medical provider first.
Ready to Plan Care?
If you need relief from TMJ problems and live in the Edina, Minneapolis/St. Paul/Twin Cities area call our friendly receptionist at 952-831-8080 to set up your first acupuncture treatment for TMJ Relief. Or go to our Contact Page now.
