Jaw Tightness / Lockjaw: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, Treatment, Ayurveda Understanding

Article by Dr Manasa S, B.A.M.S

A tight jaw can be a common yet uncomfortable issue, often stemming from stress, anxiety, inflammation, or injury. Overuse of the jaw, such as excessive chewing, can further contribute to muscle tightness. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) plays a key role in jaw function, allowing movements essential for activities like eating and yawning. Depending on the underlying cause, individuals may experience tightness on one or both sides of the jaw, which can develop gradually or suddenly and may be accompanied by pain. Fortunately, various treatments and preventive measures can help alleviate this discomfort and promote relaxation.

Symptoms of Jaw Tightness

–        Pain or discomfort: May vary in intensity, described as aching, throbbing, clicking, stiffness, or severe pain.
–        Location of pain: Can affect one or both sides of the jaw, with variation in the exact location.

Associated regions:

–        Head
–        Teeth
–        Neck
–        Nose
–        Mouth
–        Ears

Impact on daily activities: Eating, drinking, or speaking may become difficult or uncomfortable.

Jaw tightness can be caused by various factors, from mild trauma to more serious conditions, and may require medical attention.

Causes of jaw tightness

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD): TMD affects the jaw joints, causing pain, locking, or clicking when chewing or moving the jaw.

Stress: Stress can lead to jaw clenching or teeth grinding, resulting in jaw tightness and discomfort.

Teeth grinding (bruxism): Bruxism, often caused by stress or sleep issues, leads to soreness in the jaw, headaches, and muscle tightness.

Excessive chewing: Overuse of the jaw muscles through excessive chewing can cause temporary jaw tightness.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): RA affects joints, including the jaw, leading to pain, tightness, and potential bone loss.

Osteoarthritis (OA): OA can cause jaw joint deterioration, leading to pain and reduced jaw function.

Tetanus: Tetanus, a bacterial infection, causes painful jaw muscle contractions, also known as lockjaw.

Facial trauma: Injuries to the face may damage the jaw, resulting in pain, tightness, or limited movement.

Medications: Certain drugs, like antipsychotics, can trigger jaw pain and tightness as a side effect.

Infections: Infections near the jaw, like tooth abscesses, can affect movement and may lead to lockjaw.

Causes of Multiple Symptoms of a Locked Jaw

Jaw Popping and Locking

An uncomfortable popping sensation may accompany a tight jaw. Potential causes include:

–        Temporomandibular disorder (TMD)
–        Teeth grinding (bruxism)
–        Excessive chewing
–        Arthritis or other underlying medical conditions

Locked Jaw and Ear Pain

Ear pain is commonly associated with jaw tightness and may result from:

–        Temporomandibular disorder (TMD)
–        Arthritis
–        Dental issues
–        Swimmer’s ear
–        Sinus infection

These symptoms often indicate an underlying issue that may require medical evaluation.

Diagnosis of Jaw Tightness

Jaw tightness can be caused by various health conditions, requiring thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. A doctor or dentist will typically begin by reviewing the patient’s medical history, focusing on any ongoing symptoms such as pain, restricted movement, or clicking in the jaw.

To further assess the cause, imaging tests are often recommended. These tests help in diagnosing inflammation, structural abnormalities, or other conditions affecting the jaw. Common imaging techniques include:

–        X-rays: Provide a basic view of bone structure and are useful for detecting fractures or abnormalities in the jawbone.
–        CT scans: Offer a more detailed, cross-sectional image of the jaw, revealing both bone and soft tissue issues.
–        MRI scans: Focus on soft tissue, such as muscles, tendons, and cartilage, which are often involved in jaw dysfunctions like TMJ.

These diagnostic tools, in combination with a thorough clinical examination, guide the healthcare provider in formulating an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

When to Consult a Healthcare Professional?

It’s advisable to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:

–        Difficulty eating, drinking, or speaking
–        Popping, grinding, or clicking noises when moving your jaw
–        Jaw pain radiating to the ear or side of the head
–        Changes in vision
–        Severe headaches

These signs may indicate an underlying condition that requires prompt evaluation and treatment.

How to Relieve a Tight Jaw?

Jaw Joint Stretches

–        Relaxed Jaw Stretch: Place tongue behind upper teeth, lower the jaw, and keep it relaxed.
–        Goldfish Exercise: Press tongue to the roof, lower the jaw, and close it.
–        Resistance Mouth Opening: Push chin gently with hand while slowly opening and closing the mouth.

Dietary Changes

–        Opt for soft foods like applesauce, tofu, yogurt, and smoothies to reduce pressure on the jaw.

Mouthguards

–        Use mouthguards to reduce pressure from grinding or clenching teeth and reposition the jaw if needed.

Treatment and management

Jaw tightness, often associated with conditions like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, can cause discomfort and interfere with daily activities. Fortunately, several effective treatments can alleviate symptoms, ranging from home remedies to medical interventions.

Home Remedies

Hot or Cold Compresses: Applying a hot or cold compress to the jaw can provide immediate relief from pain and inflammation. A warm compress can help relax tight muscles, while a cold compress can reduce swelling and numb pain.

Relaxation Techniques: Stress management is crucial in alleviating jaw tightness. Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga can reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation.

Jaw Massage: Gently massaging the jaw area can help improve blood circulation and relax tense muscles. This can be done manually or with the assistance of a professional massage therapist.

Medical Treatments

Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. In some cases, prescription medications may be necessary for more severe symptoms.

Injections: For persistent jaw tightness, injections of corticosteroids may be recommended to reduce inflammation. Botox injections can also be effective by temporarily relaxing the muscles responsible for clenching and grinding.

Shortwave Diathermy: This non-invasive therapy uses electromagnetic waves to generate heat in the tissue, promoting relaxation and relieving pain. It can be particularly beneficial for muscle tension and discomfort.

Surgical Interventions: In severe cases where conservative treatments fail, surgical options may be considered. Procedures can range from arthrocentesis, which involves draining the joint, to more extensive surgeries aimed at correcting structural issues.

Preventive Measures for Jaw Tightness and Pain

Preventing jaw tightness and pain involves adopting certain lifestyle changes and strategies that minimize strain on the jaw muscles and joints. The following preventive measures can help maintain jaw health:

Stress Reduction to Prevent Bruxism: Bruxism, or teeth grinding, often results from stress, leading to excessive jaw clenching, which can cause tightness and discomfort. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, mindfulness, or professional counselling can significantly reduce the likelihood of bruxism, easing tension in the jaw.

Avoiding Sticky Foods: Sticky foods, such as gum, taffy, and caramel, require prolonged and forceful chewing. This can place unnecessary strain on the jaw muscles, exacerbating tightness and discomfort. Limiting or eliminating these types of foods can reduce the burden on your jaw.

Steering Clear of Hard Foods: Hard foods, like nuts, croutons, and ice chips, can exert pressure on the jaw, leading to pain and inflammation. Opting for softer, easier-to-chew options can help protect your jaw from excessive force and potential injury.

Improving sleep hygiene: Practicing good sleep hygiene can help alleviate jaw tightness by reducing stress and tension that often cause clenching during sleep. Ensure a consistent bedtime routine and a relaxing environment to promote better muscle relaxation overnight.

Incorporating these simple yet effective preventive strategies can promote better jaw health and prevent issues like tightness, pain, and long-term complications.

Key Takeaway Points on Jaw Tightness

Jaw tightness can result from various causes such as bruxism, temporomandibular disorders (TMD), or stress. While some cases may require medical intervention, simple at-home solutions can offer relief. Stress management, behavior modifications like eating soft foods and avoiding gum, as well as the use of mouthguards or splints, can help alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications. Always consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.

Related Research and Studies

In a study, the prevalence of self-reported catching or locking of jaws was higher in women than in men. The study also found that this condition often occurs independently of orofacial pain.

A research suggests a combination of many factors including genes, psychological and life stressors and how one perceives pain, may play a part in why TMD starts and whether the condition will be there for a long time or not. Since TMDs are more common in women, researchers are trying to figure out whether the differences in TMJ structure and mechanics between both sexes may play a role.

Another study found that severe lockjaw can be a symptom of a condition called stiff person syndrome even if other symptoms are absent. The stiff person syndrome, especially anti-GlyR mediated disease shall be considered in cases of severe lockjaw in spite of absence of other relevant symptoms of the syndrome or PERM (Progressive Encephalomyelitis with Rigidity and Myoclonus) at the onset of disease since the clinical presentation is heterogenous. 

Important Yoga poses for Jaw Tightness

–        Adhomukha Shvanasana – Downward Facing Dog Pose
–        Balasana – Child’s Pose
–        Shavasana – Corpse Pose
–        Matsyasana – Fish Pose
–        Shalabhasana – Locust Pose
–        Marjariyasana-Bitilasana – Cat-Cow Pose
–        Kapotasana / Eka Pada Rajakapotasana – Pigeon Pose
–        Viparita Karani – Legs Up the Wall
–        Sarvangasana – Shoulder Stand

Ayurveda Understanding of Jaw Tightness

A condition called ‘Hanugraha’ or ‘Hanustambha’ which has been explained in the context of ‘Vata Vyadhi’ i.e., special disorders caused due to aggravation of ‘only vata’ can be closely correlated with lockjaw or jaw tightness / stiffness. There is close resemblance in these two conditions in terms of symptoms.

Hanugraha is caused due to vitiation of vata in the hanu i.e. jaw or jaw joints. This will make the opening and closing of the jaw difficult along with pain and stiffness of the jaw and jaw joints.

It should be treated on the lines of treating vata vyadhi. Short, yet separate treatment has also been given for Hanugraha.

Related Reading – ‘Hanugraha’