Massage Medial Pterygoid: A Guide to Relieving TMJ Pain

Hello, I’m Emily Boudwin, a neuromuscular massage therapist and restorative exercise specialist. Today, we’re diving into the world of TMJ and focusing on a crucial muscle: the medial pterygoid. This muscle is located on the inside of the jaw, mirroring the masseter muscle, and plays a pivotal role in jaw function.

Understanding the Medial Pterygoid

The medial pterygoid is positioned inside the jaw, hugging the mandible bone. Its location makes it a bit tricky to access, but it’s essential for anyone dealing with TMJ issues. You can find the bottom edge of the medial pterigoid at the angle of the jawbone, but not everyone can reach it effectively. Some can go deeper, while others may struggle to touch it at all.

How to Access the Medial Pterygoid

To massage the medial pterygoid, you’ll want to use a gloved hand for a smoother glide. Go between your teeth with your mouth open to access the muscle. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open your mouth.
2. Using your thumb or finger, apply gentle pressure inside the angle of your jaw.
3. Feel for tenderness, as this area can be quite sore for many people.

Your goal is to reduce discomfort, and even a light touch can help with that. Aim to do this daily for 30 seconds to a few minutes. Consider doing it first thing in the morning or right before bed. Keeping gloves handy by your bedside can make this process easier, especially when lying down to minimize saliva.

Why is the Medial Pterygoid Important?

The medial pterygoid is one of the primary muscles involved in TMJ dysfunction. Working on this muscle has provided significant relief for many of my TMJ clients. It’s essential to address this area, as it can alleviate pain and improve jaw movement.

Additional Techniques and Considerations

If you find it difficult to open your mouth wide enough to access the medial pterygoid, don’t worry. There are other techniques to explore, including focusing on the upper portion of the muscle and the lateral pterygoid, which we will cover in the next video and blogpost.

Conclusion

Incorporating a massage for the medial pterygoid into your daily routine can be a game-changer for managing TMJ pain. Remember, the key is consistency. With just a few minutes each day, you can work towards reducing discomfort and improving your jaw function.

I hope you found this information helpful. If you have any questions or need further guidance, feel free to reach out. Until next time!