Craniosacral
for the Jaw and TMJ

​1. Releasing Muscular Tension Around the Jaw

• The muscles that open, close, and stabilize the jaw (masseter, temporalis, pterygoids) are often tight or imbalanced in TMJ dysfunction.

• Gentle CST holds and releases can help these muscles relax, easing pain and restoring freer movement.

• This can also reduce compensatory tension in the neck and shoulders, which often contribute to jaw discomfort.

2. Improving Joint Mobility and Alignment

• CST works directly with the temporomandibular joint itself, encouraging subtle adjustments in the way the mandible articulates with the temporal bones.

• This can improve tracking of the joint, reduce popping or clicking, and restore a smoother opening and closing pattern.

3. Addressing Cranial Bone Restriction

• Because the jaw connects to the temporal bones of the skull, restrictions or asymmetries in cranial movement can contribute to TMJ problems.

• By working with cranial rhythms and mobility, CST can restore balance, allowing the jaw to settle into a more natural alignment.

4. Regulating the Nervous System

• Many people with jaw dysfunction also clench or grind their teeth due to stress, often unconsciously.

• Craniosacral work calms the autonomic nervous system, reducing fight-or-flight responses that drive jaw tension.

• This can ease habits like bruxism (teeth grinding), nighttime clenching, and stress-related jaw pain.

5. Supporting Whole-Body Connections

• The jaw is linked through fascia and muscular chains to the neck, spine, pelvis, and even the feet.

• CST works with these global patterns of tension, which means that treating the jaw often brings improvements in posture, headaches, neck pain, and even breathing patterns.

6. Encouraging Emotional Release

• The jaw often holds unexpressed emotions—anger, frustration, grief, unspoken words.

• Gentle, supportive CST can allow safe release of this tension, leading to not only physical relief but also a sense of emotional lightness.