Q I have temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues, and I also have headaches and tinnitus. Is this related to my TMJ?
A TMJ disorders are frequently accompanied by headaches, tinnitus, and dizziness. Since the muscles and nerves surrounding the TMJ are located close to the trigeminal nerve and the ear, functional abnormalities can affect these symptoms.
Detailed Answer
Tension in the masseter and temporalis muscles around the TMJ can cause temporal headaches due to compression of the temporal artery and stimulation of the trigeminal nerve. In the case of tinnitus, the TMJ is anatomically close to the middle ear, and the mandibular nerve and chorda tympani are connected; therefore, joint abnormalities can lead to pressure within the ear or muscle tension. In fact, numerous cases have been reported where tinnitus improves after TMJ treatment. When headaches and tinnitus are present together, it is important to evaluate the TMJ.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
The Foot Shaoyang Gallbladder Meridian wraps around the ear, passes through the temporal region, and goes in front of the temporomandibular joint. Stagnation of Qi and blood in this meridian simultaneously causes tinnitus, temporal headaches, and temporomandibular joint pain along a single pathway. Since the Sanjiao Meridian also runs around the ears and the sides of the jaw, a decline in the Sanjiao's Qi transformation function affects both the ears and the jaw. At Dongjedang, we utilize key acupoints of the Gallbladder and Sanjiao Meridians to treat the ears, jaw, and head together, allowing us to address complex symptoms simultaneously in a single treatment session.
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