TMJ Massage
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What is TMJ?
TMJ means temporomandibular joint, the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull. It allows you to open and close your mouth, chew, speak, and move your jaw in multiple directions. This joint functions through a combination of sliding and rotating motions and includes a small disc that cushions the bones during movement. TMJ is obviously very important in everyday jaw function, making TMJ disorder noticeable and frustrating.
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Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
- Pain or stiffness in the jaw, especially when eating or talking.
- A dull ache near the temples, ears, or sides of the face.
- Trouble chewing or discomfort when biting.
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when moving the jaw.
- A jaw that locks open or shut during yawning or speaking.
- Uneven bite or feeling that the teeth don’t align properly.
- Headaches around the temples or behind the eyes.
- Pain spreading to the neck or shoulders.
- Sensitivity or pain in or around the ears without infection.
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Benefits of TMJ Massage
TMJ massage offers real relief for people dealing with jaw pain and related symptoms. One of the biggest benefits is pain reduction – massaging the muscles around the jaw, neck and upper back helps improve blood flow and ease muscle tension. This increased circulation can also bring down swelling that might limit jaw movement. Regular massage therapy may also help soften scar tissue that builds up around the joint, reducing stiffness and improving function. By gently loosening tight areas, massage for TMJ can make it easier to perform daily activities like chewing, speaking, and moving your jaw without discomfort.
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Massage Techniques for Treating TMJ
When it comes to treating TMJ discomfort, massage therapy can be a viable tool. Different techniques focus on relaxing the jaw muscles, improving blood circulation, and reducing pressure on the joint. Some are gentle and external, while some techniques may focus on muscles inside the mouth. Each technique serves a specific purpose depending on your symptoms. Below are some of the most common TMJ massage techniques used to help manage TMJ pain.
1
Myofascial release
Myofascial release is a gentle TMJ massage therapy technique that focuses on tight connective tissue, called fascia, around the jaw and neck. For TMJ, it helps ease tension, reduce inflammation, and make movement easier by applying steady pressure to restricted areas. It’s especially helpful for addressing trigger points in the jaw and upper body, and may also calm the nervous system to also treat stress. It’s a popular option for those looking to manage TMJ naturally.
2
Trigger point therapy
Trigger point therapy targets tight knots in the jaw muscles, especially the masseter, because it often becomes sore from grinding or clenching. These muscle knots can cause jaw pain, tension, and even headaches. By applying focused pressure to these areas, the therapist helps release the tension and restore better balance in the TMJ region. This can make jaw movement easier and reduces discomfort. It’s best done by a provider trained in TMJ anatomy, like a TMJ chiropractor or TMJ massage therapist.
3
Deep tissue massage
Deep tissue TMJ massage therapy helps with TMJ pain by breaking up tight knots, trigger points, and scar tissue in the muscles around the jaw, head, and neck. By applying firm pressure to deeper layers of muscle, this technique helps release built-up tension and makes jaw movement easier. It’s especially useful for people who grind their teeth or clench their jaw, as it targets overworked muscles and helps reduce pain. With consistent treatment, deep tissue massage can noticeably ease TMJ symptoms.
Still have questions about whether a TMJ Massage is right for you?
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TMJ Massage Therapy at Copper Wellness in Chicago, IL
At Copper Wellness in Chicago, IL, we provide expert TMJ massage therapy as part of our integrative approach to treating jaw tension, discomfort, and stress. Our licensed therapists work with each patient to gently release tight muscles in the jaw, neck, and shoulders – helping improve jaw function and reduce pain caused by clenching or grinding. We also offer acupuncture for TMJ, which can further calm inflammation and help you heal faster. Our team creates personalized treatment plans to treat both new and long-term symptoms.
Book your TMJ relief massage at Copper Wellness today and start feeling better naturally.
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Reviews About TMJ Massage
I have been going to Copper Wellness for nearly 4 years and cannot say enough good things about the clinic and all of their providers. Dr. Madden is a truly exceptional acupuncturist. I worked with her almost weekly during my first pregnancy and postpartum, and now for my second pregnancy, and she has been such a blessing with hormone health, stress and anxiety management, digestion, and sleep. She has the most amazing presence and all of her guidance has always been spot on. I also saw Dr Mohr during my first pregnancy to help with pregnancy aches and pains and pelvic positioning - he is also wonderful, so knowledgeable and kind and helped relieve a lot of my physical symptoms during that time. I’ve gone to Benicia for massage too and she is one of the best! (and I’ve seen a lot of massage therapists in my life)
I am moving from Chicago soon and truly going to miss this amazing clinic.
I am moving from Chicago soon and truly going to miss this amazing clinic.
Response from the owner 11:44 03 Jun 25
Dear Marianna,Thank you so much for your kind words and for being with us all these years. We're honored to have supported you through both pregnancies. Dr. Madden, Dr. Mohr, and Benicia will be touched by your feedback. Wishing you all the best in your move — you'll always be part of the Copper Wellness family! 
Dr. Mohr helped me tremendously with lower back pain and SI joint pain years ago and I still use the exercises he provided me to sustain feeling better. He used multiple techniques and movement based therapies to improve my ability to bend and lie down without pain.
Response from the owner 07:57 26 May 25
Thank you so much, Jack! We're truly glad to hear you're still feeling better — your kind words mean a lot to us! 
I have received services and initially had good intentions for a relationship with this clinic, but the billing issues and poor customer service significantly affected my experience and I feel compelled to share.
From the beginning, I was clear that billing transparency was important to me. Despite that, I ran into repeated issues with billing. The clinic charged me estimated amounts that didn’t ultimately match my Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from UnitedHealthcare, and when I brought up the discrepancies—with actual documentation to back it up—I was met with defensiveness rather than a willingness to resolve things collaboratively.
One particularly strange policy I encountered was that this clinic might charge a “clinic fee” if UnitedHealthcare doesn’t accommodate their cash rates. This seems to blur the lines between in-network and out-of-network billing.
Meanwhile, claims weren’t submitted to insurance promptly, which delayed payments and caused unnecessary confusion—none of which was my fault as the patient.
Bottom line: I paid what I was invoiced on time, asked reasonable questions when things didn’t add up, and was made to feel like I was the problem for doing so. I’ve since paused services until this can be sorted out—and I feel compelled to share my experience here.
From the beginning, I was clear that billing transparency was important to me. Despite that, I ran into repeated issues with billing. The clinic charged me estimated amounts that didn’t ultimately match my Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from UnitedHealthcare, and when I brought up the discrepancies—with actual documentation to back it up—I was met with defensiveness rather than a willingness to resolve things collaboratively.
One particularly strange policy I encountered was that this clinic might charge a “clinic fee” if UnitedHealthcare doesn’t accommodate their cash rates. This seems to blur the lines between in-network and out-of-network billing.
Meanwhile, claims weren’t submitted to insurance promptly, which delayed payments and caused unnecessary confusion—none of which was my fault as the patient.
Bottom line: I paid what I was invoiced on time, asked reasonable questions when things didn’t add up, and was made to feel like I was the problem for doing so. I’ve since paused services until this can be sorted out—and I feel compelled to share my experience here.
Response from the owner 18:14 28 May 25
Hi Tina, I am sorry that your experience was not as you had hoped at Copper Wellness. Before starting treatment all patients using insurance are given a breakdown of what their benefits cover at the clinic. Because of your shared concern about billing transparency, we also provided a breakdown of all potential charges for every type of appointment covered by insurance after your first treatment and before continuing care. We are happy to do this with any patient. Insurance billing is not an automated process, we submit the claims based on our insurance contracts with these companies and are paid as such. If there is a discrepancy in an overpayment it is issued back to the patient.We understand insurance can be frustrating and confusing which is why we contract a certified outside billing team to ensure the efficiency and accuracy of our billing practices. After reviewing all the communication I thought it was best to refer you to another practice which is local to you and within your network. As the owner and a practitioner I believe it is best that your healthcare environment be in a place that makes you feel relaxed and supported. I am sorry that cannot be us however we all wish you the best of luck with your journey. 
Copper Wellness has been a pivotal part of my wellness routine since moving to Chicago - can’t the imagine the city without them!
Response from the owner 14:31 21 Feb 25
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re grateful to be part of your integrative health and wellness journey and truly appreciate your support. Looking forward to seeing you again! 
I've been seeing Dr Stephanie Madden since last year, and the experience has been truly transformative. Overall, Copper Wellness is both calming and welcoming. Stephanie is always attentive to my needs, whether they are physical, mental or emotional. I always leave feeling more balanced than when I came. It's obvious that she truly cares about the well-being of her patients. If you are considering acupuncture, this is the place to go!
Response from the owner 08:17 10 Feb 25
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're so glad to hear that your experience at Copper Wellness has been transformative. We appreciate your trust and look forward to continuing to support you on your wellness journey! 
I can't say enough great things about my experience at Copper Wellness! Dr. Madden is truly incredible. She has been instrumental in helping me manage my weight and find relief from stress, something I've struggled with for a long time. Her personalized approach, calm demeanor, and deep knowledge made me feel completely comfortable and cared for during each session!
Response from the owner 08:17 10 Feb 25
Thank you for your kind words! We're so happy to hear you’ve had a great experience at Copper Wellness. Dr. Madden is dedicated to personalized care, and we’re grateful to be part of your health journey! 
Copper Wellness has been a blessing in my life, I cant stop talking about the progress that Dr. Madden's treatment plan has made in my mental and physical health. The environment is calm, welcoming, and always filled with positive energy. I discovered Dr. Madden during a period of self reflection, I felt an imbalance in my life. When we met, she explained the practice and how it can impact the symptoms I was feeling. Acupuncture as a whole can change your life - it has mine, and Dr. Madden is the perfect provider to guide you to your ultimate wellness. Thank You Copper!
Response from the owner 18:17 27 Jan 25
You're a true testament to you get out what you put in. You've been so dedicated to your care and it's a gift to see you thriving in the happiness you've created for yourself. We love to be along for the ride and see how feeling your best helps you tackle your dreams. 
I've been seeing Dr. Mohr for a number of years now and the results have been amazing! From the first visit, I felt welcomed and listened to. My back pain has significantly improved, and I feel more energized and aligned (pun intended). Highly recommend if you're looking for top-notch care!
Response from the owner 18:18 27 Jan 25
Thanks Joe! We love the dad jokes, keep 'em coming 🙂 
Copper Wellness has been my point of care for everything related to my body and immune system consistently for 3 years now. I started my journey when my low back and glute were bothering me. Between Adam for muscle and movement work in addition to adjustments and Stephanie for my first round of acupuncture continued through to two of the hardest athletic years of my life running 7 marathons and competing in 6 IM events I owe my body to this group. They always keep my races top of mind when treating me but more importantly work on exercise and life habit changes to improve any issues I’m experiencing rather than just putting a “bandaid” on something that hurts. Also note that the massage therapy is unbelievable, Blu as a MT is life changing and all of the practitioners communicate across practices so that all care is tailored to areas I need focused on. I HIGHLY recommend this group.
Response from the owner 18:40 27 Jan 25
Whitney! Literally always keeping us on our toes keeping up with your impressive and successful yearly race schedule. It's been awesome to see you achieve your goals while enjoying the process. Can't wait to see what you have scheduled for this year. 
Absolutely love this place. I go to Dr. Madden for Acupuncture and she not only will take time to sit and listen to what is going on with my body, but she'll also curate a plan of attack that is personalized to my needs. I absolutely love coming here and appreciate everything that they do.
Response from the owner 18:38 27 Jan 25
Thank you Lauren 
I. Love. This. Place! I see both Dr. Mimosa for chiropractic and Dr. Madden for acupuncture, and they are two of the best practitioners of *any* type of medicine I've EVER worked with. They listen. They care. They genuinely want to help you feel your best. I can't recommend them and Copper Wellness enough.
Best Chiropractors in the city yall!! Dr.Mimosa is sweet and easy to talk to. Dr. Adam is very easy to talk to as well. Highly recommend!!!
Can't say enough good things about Anais. Very professional, very knowledgably, and just an amazing caring person! You are in the best of hands with her, would highly recommend!
I have been seeing Dr. Madden for acupuncture for almost a year now and I don't know where I'd be without her. She's incredible at what she does and the entire staff is awesome.
Anais is simply the best! Had a great review, consultation of problem areas and left feeling like I was on a cloud! Can't wait to go back, highly recommend the electrode therapy, it was amazing.
Dr Madden is a miracle worker. For over a year I had issues with my feet. She was the 1st to say my calf’s were right! Her acupuncture was spot on and helped right away. The stress caused issues in my neck as well that she helped not only with acupuncture but cupping as well. Her care and compassion is amazing. I will continue on maintenance because she is so amazing. ‼️
Copper Wellness has been a pivotal part of my health journey! The integrative services that are offered are tailored to my needs/situation. Specifically, when I needed to start doing massage therapy for upper and lower back pain, Cameron Sand did a great job from the start making me feel comfortable. Whenever I have a question, they answer it readily and explain how and what they are doing during our session. I’ve seen a huge improvement since working with them and couldn’t recommend them enough!
I sincerely wish that I could give Dr. Stephanie Madden 1 million stars. From the time that I met her for consultation through my entire acupuncture journey with her, she was incredibly attentive, genuine, personable, professional, precise, safe, knowledgeable, skilled, and wise with her work. I saw Dr. Madden for about 1 a little over a year to help resolve physical issues from emotional traumas and sufferings in my life. I cannot stress how different my life is from when I first saw her. She helped me get to core issues in my physical health that other doctors never came close to articulating, let alone being aware. Working those physical issues directly helped me so much with my emotional health. My quality of life now is so much better because of her contributions to my healing journey. After working with Dr. Madden, she is a practitioner that I trust and deeply respect. If anyone ever asks me to recommend an acupuncturist, I would never hesitate to recommend anyone to her. I even recommended her to one of my friends on his journey to receive a heart transplant, and she made a positive impact on his quality of life. He had nothing but positive things to say about her (and now he is thriving with a new heart!). Dr. Stephanie Madden has made a wonderful impact on my life, and I can only imagine the impact she is making on the lives of others whom encounter her. She is someone that has answered her call in life, and is absolutely brilliant at it. Brilliant!
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We accept most major insurance plans depending on your type of service.
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FAQs About TMJ Massage
Does Massage Help TMJ?
Yes, massage helps relieve TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder symptoms. It reduces muscle tension in the jaw, neck, and shoulders, improves circulation, and decreases pain and inflammation. Targeted massage can also improve jaw mobility and reduce headaches or jaw clicking caused by TMJ dysfunction.
What Is TMJ Massage Therapy?
TMJ massage therapy is a specialized technique that focuses on relieving tension in the jaw muscles and surrounding areas affected by temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. It involves gentle manipulation of the jaw, face, neck, and shoulders to reduce pain, improve mobility, and decrease inflammation. TMJ massage can be performed externally or inside the mouth (intraoral).
What Causes TMJ Dysfunction?
TMJ dysfunction is caused by issues affecting the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. Common causes include jaw clenching, teeth grinding (bruxism), poor posture, arthritis, jaw injury, or stress. These factors can lead to inflammation, misalignment, or overuse of the temporomandibular joint, resulting in pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving the jaw.
Can You Cure TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder cannot always be cured completely, but its symptoms can often be effectively managed or significantly reduced. Treatments like massage therapy, chiropractic care, stress reduction, dental splints, and physical therapy can relieve pain and improve jaw function. Early intervention and consistent care can lead to long-term relief.
How Often Should I Schedule TMJ Massage Therapy Sessions?
TMJ massage therapy is typically recommended 1 to 2 times per week at the beginning, especially if symptoms are severe or chronic. Consistent sessions help reduce muscle tension, improve jaw function, and prevent flare-ups. As symptoms improve, the frequency can be reduced to once every few weeks for maintenance and long-term relief.
What to Expect from a TMJ Massage?
During a TMJ massage, you can expect gentle, targeted work on the jaw, face, neck, and shoulders to relieve tension and improve jaw mobility. The therapist may use external techniques and, in some cases, intraoral massage (inside the mouth) to release tight muscles around the temporomandibular joint. Most clients feel relief from jaw pain, headaches, and tension after just one session.
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