Based on patients I’ve seen for jaw pain since 2013, I created this portrait of a typical patient. And of course, I’ve seen other patients who don’t fit these criteria.
She’s female. It’s been said that women are nine times more likely to suffer from jaw pain.
She first experienced jaw pain in her teen years.
She’s suffered for at least a decade, sometimes two decades or longer.
She clenches and/or grinds her teeth.
A dentist has prescribed an appliance to prevent damage to her teeth. The chances are 50/50 that she uses it as prescribed.
I wish I knew more about this.
Her pain level fluctuates, increasing with stress, and she usually hasn’t gone more than 6 months free from jaw pain since onset.
Her neck and shoulders are tight. Sometimes she has headaches, migraines, or ear pain.
She may also have pelvic alignment issues.
She has sought help from physical therapists, chiropractors, acupuncturists, and/or massage therapists.
She’d like to find lasting relief from her jaw and related issues.
Can you relate? How do you fit this profile, and how are you different?