If you’re suffering from neck pain, jaw and neck pain, a herniated disc in the cervical spine may be to blame. A physical therapist can teach you how to relieve neck pain and help you pinpoint the root cause of your discomfort.

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to the base of your skull. Dysfunction in this joint is often identified by jaw pain, ringing in the ears or headaches, but it can also lead to neck issues such as muscle spasm, stiffness, and reduced flexibility. Poor neck posture, characterized by rounded shoulders and your chin being pushed forward can put stress on the TMJ and contribute to neck pain as well.

TMJ and neck pain are related because the muscles that attach to the joint work together with the muscles in your head and neck. Tight or inflamed jaw muscles can pull on the muscles in your neck, causing pain. The resulting tightness or strain in the neck can result in chronic headaches, as well as jaw and shoulder pain. TMJ can also contribute to neck problems such as spondylolysis, osteoarthritis of the cervical spine or herniated discs.

Neck pain and jaw pain are also linked because they can both be caused by a single underlying condition. TMJ can cause a misalignment of the joints in the jaw, which can cause tension and strain on the neck. Neck pain can be caused by a variety of things including stress, poor posture, and a herniated disc in the neck.

Symptoms of TMJ and neck pain can vary widely, but some common symptoms include achy or tenderness in the jaw, cheeks, nose, earlobes, temples, or upper back. Neck pain can be described as sharp, achy, dull, or throbbing and is often made worse by chewing or yawning. Both neck and jaw pain can be described as achy, tender, or throbbing, and the intensity of the pain can change over time.

There are several treatment options for TMJ and neck pain. Some treatments are noninvasive, while others require more extensive treatment. TMJ treatment can involve the use of ice packs to reduce swelling, warm moist heat, or massage of the jaw and neck muscles. Some people find relief through self-care, such as using relaxation techniques or eating soft foods that do not require much chewing. In severe cases of TMJ, a doctor can use a needle to drain fluid from the joint. They can also prescribe medications to relax the jaw muscles or prevent migraines. Other treatments for neck and jaw pain may involve the use of a dental appliance, such as a mouthguard or an orthodontic device. Surgery is rarely used to treat TMJ, but may be recommended if other treatments have failed. In many cases, the best way to relieve neck and jaw pain is to see a doctor for a thorough exam and history of your symptoms. They can identify the underlying cause, and order tests like X-rays or an MRI to evaluate your neck and jaw muscles.