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Migraine and Bruxism: When Tension Turns Into a Headache

Published on 2025-04-10 · PT Jefferson Ramírez

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a common habit that can have consequences beyond dental wear. One of them is migraine. Excessive tension in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and in the muscles of the head and neck can trigger intense, recurring headaches.

How is bruxism related to migraine?

• Muscle tension: Bruxism causes constant contraction of the chewing muscles (masseter, temporalis) and the neck muscles. This tension can radiate toward the head and trigger migraines.
• TMJ dysfunction: The TMJ is a complex joint that connects the jaw to the skull. Tension and imbalance in this joint can cause headache, facial pain and migraines.
• Nerve triggers: Muscle tension and TMJ dysfunction can irritate the nerves that supply the head and neck, which can set off migraines.

Physical Therapy: A Comprehensive Approach to Relief

Physical therapy offers a comprehensive approach to treating migraine that stems from bruxism, focusing on:

• Releasing the TMJ:
  • Manual therapy techniques to mobilize and relax the TMJ.
  • Exercises to improve jaw mobility and coordination.
    
• Releasing the muscles:
  • Myofascial release techniques to reduce tension in the chewing, neck and head muscles.
  • Stretches and exercises to improve flexibility and muscle relaxation.
    
• Cervical manual therapy:
  • Mobilization of the cervical vertebrae to reduce tension and improve posture, which is a decisive factor in bruxism.
  • Dry needling of myofascial trigger points, which cause pain referred to the head and face.
    
• Education and prevention:
  • Guidance on postural hygiene and relaxation techniques.
  • Instructions on self-management exercises to keep the TMJ and the muscles relaxed.
  • Body awareness techniques to recognize and avoid parafunctional habits.

Benefits of Physical Therapy:

• Reduced frequency and intensity of migraines.
• Relief of facial and TMJ pain.
• Improved jaw mobility and function.
• Less muscle tension and stress.
• Better sleep quality.
• Lower use of medication.

Recommendations:

• Book with a physical therapist experienced in treating the TMJ and migraine.
• Be consistent with the exercises and the relaxation techniques.

If you have migraines and suspect that bruxism could be a contributing factor, physical therapy can be a valuable tool for finding relief and improving your quality of life.