Neck and Jaw Pain: The Link Between These Two Parts of the Body
Frequent neck and jaw pain is not unusual, considering the constant use and movement of these body parts. Although different, both the neck and jaw share a connection to the head, which may lead to simultaneous pain in both areas. In this article, we delve into the relationship between neck and jaw pain, exploring their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Understanding the Link between Neck and Jaw Pain While the neck and jaw are distinct body parts, they share a connection to the head. Consequently, pain in either area could be related to a head issue, and those experiencing jaw pain might be more prone to developing neck pain.
Causes of Neck and Jaw Pain The primary cause of neck and jaw pain is an imbalance in the musculoskeletal system, which can stem from poor posture, injury, stress, or trauma. Neck and jaw pain may also result from conditions like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, which is characterized by discomfort in the jaw joint. In some cases, the pain may be due to more severe conditions such as a herniated disc or arthritis. It is essential to distinguish between the two types of pain, as a herniated disc is a degenerative disc disease affecting the spine, while jaw pain typically results from dental issues like tooth decay, infection, or TMJ.
Symptoms of Neck and Jaw Pain Symptoms of neck and jaw pain can differ or overlap. Neck pain is commonly identified by a dull ache, sharp pain, or burning sensation, and may be accompanied by tingling or numbness in the arms, stiffness or aching in the neck, or headaches. Jaw pain, on the other hand, is often described as a sharp or achy sensation near the joint, which differs from the muscle pain experienced with neck pain.
Diagnosing Neck and Jaw Pain A doctor will likely perform a physical examination and conduct diagnostic tests to rule out more severe conditions. Jaw pain can often be diagnosed immediately, as the doctor will check for dental issues and perform a TMJ exam.
Treatment Options for Neck and Jaw Pain Treatments for neck and jaw pain depend on the underlying cause. If pain is due to infection or dental issues, antibiotics or dental procedures may be recommended. For other causes, treatments focus on managing and reducing pain rather than curing it. For instance, doctors may prescribe pain medications or suggest physical therapy for a herniated disc. Seeking medical attention is crucial for identifying and treating the cause of pain appropriately.
How Osteopathy Can Help with Neck and Jaw Pain An osteopath will conduct a physical examination to determine the source of pain. Visiting an osteopath is beneficial if pain results from poor posture, stress, or body misalignment. They can identify these issues and provide appropriate suggestions for correction. Osteopathic treatment aims to address the misalignment causing pain and may include recommendations for lifestyle changes to prevent future discomfort. Schedule an appointment with one of our osteopaths to learn more about addressing your neck and jaw pain. Book with one of our osteopaths to find out more infomation.
