TMJ Acupuncture & Gua Sha Myofascial Release Treatment

The Yoon Clinic offers specialized acupuncture treatments for patients suffering from Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders, which affect the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, causing pain and dysfunction that can significantly impact daily life. At Yoon Clinic, we provide a holistic approach, integrating traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) principles for effective relief.

TMJ Acupuncture:

Targeted Acupoints: Our acupuncture treatments focus on specific points to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote muscle relaxation.
Holistic Healing: By integrating TCM principles, our approach not only addresses TMJ symptoms but also restores balance and enhances overall well-being.

Gua Sha Myofascial Release:

Muscle Tension Relief: Gua Sha uses a smooth-edged tool to apply pressure and gently scrape the skin, releasing tension in the fascia and muscles around the jaw.
Improved Circulation: This technique increases blood flow, reducing pain and promoting healing in the affected areas.

Treatment Approach:

Comprehensive Assessment: Each patient undergoes a thorough evaluation to understand their specific symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle factors contributing to their TMJ disorder.
Customized Acupuncture Plan: Based on this assessment, we develop a personalized acupuncture treatment plan targeting specific acupoints known to alleviate TMJ-related pain, reduce inflammation, and promote muscle relaxation.
Integrated Therapies: In addition to acupuncture, the Yoon Clinic may incorporate other TCM practices, such as cupping or TuiNa, to enhance the overall effectiveness of the treatment.
Ongoing Monitoring: Regular follow-ups ensure we can monitor your progress, adjust treatment plans, and achieve the best possible outcomes.

Symptoms of TMJ Disorders:

Jaw Pain: Pain or tenderness in the jaw, which may extend to the neck and shoulders.
Limited Jaw Movement: Difficulty or discomfort when opening or closing the mouth.
Clicking or Popping Sounds: Audible clicking or popping noises when moving the jaw.
Ear Pain: Pain in or around the ears, often mistaken for ear infections.
Headaches: Chronic headaches, often resembling tension headaches or migraines.
Facial Pain: Generalized pain in the face, sometimes radiating to other areas.
Jaw Locking: The sensation of the jaw locking or becoming stuck in an open or closed position.
Swelling: Swelling on the side of the face.
Bite Changes: Changes in how the upper and lower teeth fit together.

How It Works:

During the session, fine, sterile needles are gently inserted into specific acupoints on the face, jaw, and sometimes other areas of the body, such as the head. To enhance the treatment's effectiveness, the practitioner may also use electroacupuncture. At the end of the session, a Gua Sha treatment will be applied, which may leave some temporary redness on the skin.

What to Expect:

Initial Consultation: The acupuncturist will assess your symptoms, medical history, and overall health to create a personalized treatment plan.
Treatment Sessions:The initial session will be 1 hour, with subsequent sessions lasting 50 minutes. You may feel a mild tingling or warmth at the needle sites during treatment.
Frequency: The number of sessions required varies based on the severity of the condition, but many patients experience improvement after a few treatments.

Insurance Coverage:

If your extended health care plan covers acupuncture, this treatment will be covered as Facial Acupuncture.
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