Victor Forge
The temporalis muscle is one of four muscles responsible for chewing and is involved in closing the jaw and moving it from side to side. It can become inflamed due to teeth clenching, trauma, or gum chewing, leading to pain and headaches. Various treatments are available, including dental procedures, surgery, and botulinum toxin (BTX) injections. BTX injections, specifically, target the sensory neurons to reduce muscle thickness and alleviate headaches. Other self-treatment methods, such as myofascial release using a ball or thumb, can also help relax the muscle.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temporalis Muscle Reduction Methods | Botulinum Toxin Type A (BTX-A) injections, Muscle reduction surgery, Temporalis muscle transfer |
| BTX-A Injection Sites | Five points using the jugale as the reference point |
| BTX-A Effect Duration | 5-6 months |
| BTX-A Precautions | Evaluate underlying diseases, risk-benefit ratio for cosmetic purposes |
| Temporalis Muscle Functions | Closing the jaw, moving the jaw side to side, retraction |
| Causes of Temporalis Muscle Pain | Tooth clenching, gum chewing, trauma, head position, nail-biting, muscle strains |
| Self-Treatment | Self myofascial release using a thumb or a small ball |
| Self-Treatment Instructions | Pin the tender point with mild to moderate pressure, direct thumb/ball in different directions, open mouth to stretch |
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What You'll Learn
Reduce teeth clenching and jaw deviation
The temporalis muscle, which can be felt over the temples, is responsible for closing the jaw and moving it from side to side. This muscle can often be affected by excessive gum chewing, teeth clenching, trauma, and head position. Teeth clenching, also known as bruxism, can cause painful damage to the teeth and jaw and lead to long-term problems. Sleep bruxism, or teeth grinding during sleep, is most common in children, adolescents, and young adults but can affect people of all ages.
To reduce teeth clenching, you can try mouth exercises that help relax and stretch the muscles involved in tooth grinding and clenching. These exercises, performed for a few minutes several times a day, can help prevent and address irritation of the teeth, jaw, and neck. One such exercise involves gently closing your lips while preventing your top and bottom teeth from touching. You can also try self-myofascial release techniques on the temporalis muscle by using your thumb or a small ball to apply pressure. Additionally, avoiding hard and sticky foods can help reduce the negative impact of teeth clenching.
If you experience jaw deviation, it is important to understand the underlying causes, which may include TMJ disorders, muscle imbalances, injury or trauma, teeth misalignment, and medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Jaw deviation can cause pain, discomfort, and other TMJ-related symptoms. Treatment for jaw deviation aims to address the specific causes and alleviate symptoms. Specialized therapies, such as those offered at the San Francisco Center for TMJ and Sleep Apnea, can help balance the muscles involved in jaw movement. In some cases, orthodontic treatments or surgical procedures may be recommended.
To address both teeth clenching and jaw deviation, it is crucial to identify and address any underlying causes, such as stress, anxiety, or depression, which can contribute to teeth clenching and subsequent jaw issues. Additionally, consulting with a healthcare professional, such as a dentist or a doctor, can provide personalized advice and treatment options to reduce teeth clenching and address jaw deviation.
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Treat inflammation with acupuncture
The temporalis muscle, which is responsible for closing the jaw and moving it from side to side, can become inflamed due to tooth clenching or grinding, prolonged mouth opening, muscle strains, nail-biting, or trauma such as whiplash. This inflammation can lead to pain and discomfort that spreads throughout the body, including the ears, shoulders, neck, and skull, and can even result in headaches or migraines.
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese technique that has been used for thousands of years to treat chronic pain and other health issues associated with inflammation. It involves stimulating specific acupoints on the body's surface, which triggers nerve signaling that can affect the function of other body parts. Recent research has provided insights into the neuroanatomical basis of acupuncture and its effectiveness in reducing inflammation.
Harvard researchers have identified a subset of neurons that must be present for acupuncture to trigger an anti-inflammatory response. They found that acupuncture stimulation can either suppress or promote inflammation, depending on where, when, and how it is applied. The timing of treatment, placement of the needles, and intensity of stimulation are critical factors that can produce different outcomes. For example, acupuncture has been shown to reduce systemic inflammation in mice experiencing cytokine storms, which are extreme immune responses characterized by the rapid release of excess inflammatory proteins.
To treat inflammation in the temporalis muscle, acupuncture can be applied specifically to target this muscle group. Additionally, addressing the underlying causes of muscle inflammation, such as teeth clenching or jaw trauma, can help prevent further issues. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the appropriate treatment plan for your specific condition.
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Take over-the-counter pain relievers
The temporalis muscle is responsible for closing the jaw and moving it from side to side. It is often affected by excessive gum chewing, jaw clenching, trauma to the muscle, and head position. When the temporalis muscle becomes inflamed, overworked, and tired, the pain can spread beyond the jaw to the ears, shoulders, neck, and skull. This can lead to headaches, including migraines.
Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers can help remedy the pain and discomfort caused by the temporalis muscle. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), and aspirin are common OTC pain relievers that can be purchased without a prescription. These medications are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that treat pain, fever, and swelling. NSAIDs are particularly effective in reducing inflammation and swelling. However, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is another popular OTC option that is generally safer and gentler on the stomach than NSAIDs. It is important to note that acetaminophen is less effective at reducing inflammation and swelling. For those with kidney or heart problems, acetaminophen may be a better choice. Alka-Seltzer, which contains aspirin, citric acid, and sodium bicarbonate, can be used to treat stomach pain and headaches. However, it carries the same risks as aspirin, including blood-thinning effects. Additionally, people with heart failure or kidney problems should avoid Alka-Seltzer due to its sodium content.
It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication. They can advise on the appropriate dosage and help determine if OTC pain relievers are suitable for your specific condition. While OTC pain relievers can provide temporary relief, it is important to address the underlying causes of temporalis muscle pain. This may include reducing jaw clenching, improving head and neck posture, and practising relaxation techniques to reduce teeth grinding.
In addition to OTC pain relievers, other treatments for temporalis muscle pain include dental treatments, chiropractic care, and self-myofascial release techniques. It is important to seek professional advice from a dentist or healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific condition.
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Consider botulinum toxin injections
Botulinum toxin injections are a viable option for reducing the temporalis muscle. This muscle, often referred to as the temporal muscle, is responsible for closing the jaw and moving it from side to side. It is also one of the muscles responsible for chewing. When this muscle becomes inflamed, overworked, or tired, pain can spread throughout the body, including the ears, shoulders, neck, and skull. This pain can also manifest as headaches or migraines.
Botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) injections have been explored as a treatment option for masseter hypertrophy, which can lead to structural and functional changes in the temporalis muscle. The injections are aimed at reducing muscle thickness and alleviating pain. A single BoNT-A treatment can last up to 4 months, which is significantly longer than the effects of orally administered drugs and lidocaine injections. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved 31 injection sites for BoNT-A, with four injection sites on each side of the temporalis muscle suggested.
When considering BoNT-A injections, it is important to identify the correct injection sites to ensure the treatment's effectiveness and avoid any adverse effects. The injections should be administered at least 45 mm vertically above the zygomatic arch to target the muscle region and produce the greatest clinical effect with the minimum concentration of BoNT-A. This site is identified through Sihler's staining, which reveals the dense dispersion of nerve endings in the temporalis muscle that BoNT-A acts on.
While botulinum toxin injections can be effective, it is important to consult a qualified healthcare provider to determine the most suitable treatment plan for your specific condition and needs.
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Undergo temporalis muscle reduction surgery
Undergoing temporalis muscle reduction surgery is a significant decision that should be considered in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. The temporalis muscle is a chewing muscle located on the side of the temple and extending to the jaw, aiding in jaw closure. While there are non-surgical options for treating temporalis muscle issues, surgery may be recommended in certain cases, especially for patients with facial paralysis. Here is a step-by-step guide to undergoing temporalis muscle reduction surgery:
Pre-Surgery
Before the surgery, patients may need to undergo certain tests, such as electromyography (EMG), to determine their suitability for nerve transfers and assess muscle activity to ensure there has been no irreversible muscle wasting. In some cases, facial physiotherapy may be recommended before the surgery to prepare the patient. Additionally, nerve transfers are often preferred over other reanimation options, and the patient's history will dictate if this is a viable option.
Anesthesia
Temporalis muscle reduction surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. Facial nerve monitoring may be employed if there is residual nerve function on the affected side of the face.
Incision and Muscle Mobilization
The surgery involves creating a zig-zag scalp incision, similar to a cosmetic brow lift. The temporalis muscle is then mobilized by detaching it from the underlying cranial bone and releasing its tendious insertion onto the jaw. In some cases, the cheekbone (zygomatic arch) may be temporarily released to facilitate the procedure and is later restored to its original position.
Muscle Transfer
The dense tissue encasing the muscle (fascia) is extended to increase its reach. The temporalis muscle is then tunneled beneath the skin of the cheek and secured to the upper lip or corner of the mouth. This transfer redirects the force of the muscle, allowing for a voluntary smile. Grafts from donor sites, such as the outer thigh, hand, lower leg, or temple, may be used to lengthen the muscle tendon.
Closing the Incision
After securing the muscle and tendon in their new positions, the muscle is stimulated to ensure proper movement and make any necessary adjustments. Drains and a thin pain pump catheter are often used to manage postoperative fluid drainage and muscle spasms, improving comfort during recovery. The incision is then closed, and patients can expect a period of recovery and healing.
Post-Surgery Care
Post-surgery, patients are advised to follow a soft diet, avoiding hard foods, for approximately four weeks. Swelling and bruising of the face and eyelids may occur but typically resolve within the first week. Light walking and stationary activities are recommended during the initial 4 to 6 weeks, avoiding heavy lifting, contact sports, and aerobic exercises. Physical therapy may begin around three weeks post-surgery to promote muscle mobility and ensure optimal healing.
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Frequently asked questions
The temporalis muscle is one of four muscles responsible for chewing. It helps you close your jaw and connects the side of the skull to the lower jawbone. It is often affected by excessive gum chewing, jaw clenching, trauma to the muscle, and head position.
There are a few ways to reduce the temporalis muscle. One way is to receive botulinum toxin (BTX) injections, which can reduce the size of the muscle and reduce twitching. Another way is to undergo temporalis muscle reduction surgery.
There are many ways to treat pain from the temporalis muscle. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers, visit a chiropractor, or see a dentist to devise a treatment plan.
