What’s Really Causing Your Headaches and Jaw Pain?

Headaches and jaw pain are extremely common and often closely linked to tension and dysfunction in the neck and jaw.

In fact, tension-type headaches affect up to 40% of adults worldwide, making them one of the most common headache types.

The majority of headache and jaw complaints we see clinically involve cervicogenic headaches and jaw joint (TMJ) dysfunction.

Cervicogenic Headaches

Cervicogenic headaches originate from dysfunction in the joints and muscles of the upper neck. These headaches are often mistaken for tension headaches or migraines.

Typical symptoms:

Headache starting at the base of the skull
Pain that travels to the temple, forehead, or behind the eye
Neck stiffness or tightness
Headaches triggered by prolonged sitting or poor posture

Cervicogenic headaches are commonly linked to poor posture, prolonged desk work, stress, and upper neck joint irritation.

Jaw (TMJ) Dysfunction

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the jaw to the skull and is heavily influenced by muscle tension and joint mechanics.

Typical symptoms:

Jaw pain or tightness
Clicking or stiffness when opening or closing the mouth
Pain when chewing or talking
Headaches around the temples
Jaw clenching or grinding (often during sleep)

Jaw dysfunction is often associated with teeth grinding, stress, jaw clenching, and poor neck posture

Why This Matters

Most headache and jaw conditions respond very well to conservative treatment, including hands-on therapy, muscle release techniques, and targeted rehabilitation.