Traditional Chinese Medicine's Explanation of TMJ Inflammation

Temporomandibular joint inflammation is one of the common symptoms of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD). Patients typically present with tension and pain in the lower jaw area. When opening the mouth wide, a clicking or popping sound may be heard near the jaw, which can be annoying and interfere with daily life—especially when talking for extended periods, yawning widely, laughing, or chewing tough foods, which can all exacerbate the pain.

In cases where the patient has no congenital abnormalities of the TMJ, jaw pain is often strongly linked to emotional stress. When stressed, many people tend to clench or grind their teeth unconsciously, particularly during sleep. Over time, this constant grinding can lead to wear and tear on the TMJ, accelerating degeneration beyond the normal rate.


The TCM View of TMJ Inflammation
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, patients with TMJ inflammation often experience not just physical symptoms like jaw pain, but also underlying emotional and systemic imbalances such as chronic stress, insomnia, vivid dreams, internal heat, constipation, and frequent headaches.

A practical and effective way to manage this condition is through daily acupressure massage. This practice helps relax the facial muscles and simultaneously reduce stress levels. TCM identifies three key acupoints that are particularly effective in relieving TMJ symptoms:

Jia Che (ST6 颊车)
Quan Liao (SI18 颧髎)
Ting Hui (GB2 听会)

How to Perform Acupressure for TMJ Inflammation

• Positioning
• Sit upright with head supported against a backrest, or lie on your back using a low pillow.
• Acupressure Technique
• Use your index or middle finger to gently press and massage the three key points—ST6, SI18, and GB2—in a circular motion. Alternate among the points for 3–5 minutes, holding each point for 3–5 seconds per round.
• Warm Compress
• Rub your palms together until warm or soak them in warm water, then place them over the lower jaw area. Hold until the warmth fades. Repeat this 5–10 times. This routine can be performed daily for best results.

Functions and Locations of the Three Acupoints
1. Jia Che (ST6 颊车)
Location:
Found at the most prominent point when the jaw is clenched—directly over the masseter muscle, a key muscle involved in jaw movement.

2. Quan Liao (SI18 颧髎)
Location:
Beneath the cheekbone, directly under the center of the lower eye socket.

3. Ting Hui (GB2 听会)
Location:
Located just in front of the ear canal, and becomes easily palpable when the mouth is opened wide.

Conclusion
TMJ inflammation reflects more than just a local joint issue—it often indicates underlying imbalances in both body and mind. By applying the principles of TCM through daily acupressure, one can not only ease physical symptoms but also calm the nervous system, improve sleep, and restore the body's natural balance.

This holistic approach, rooted in centuries of wisdom, offers a safe and effective way to complement modern care for TMJ-related disorders.

Written by:
刘财蓬 中医师
TCM. Dr. Tanaporn Tanasrivanichchai (Liu Cai Peng)