Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain may indicate issues beyond the immediate area; it is frequently associated with jaw, neck, or airway problems. At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Kansas City, we identify underlying causes to help regain comfort and balance.
Over 70 Centres
Decades
Tens of Thousands
When Shoulder Pain Begins at the Jaw
The jaw, neck, and shoulders are interconnected through a complex array of muscles and nerves. When the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is stressed or out of alignment, it can disturb this network, resulting in pain that may extend into the shoulders or upper back. Many individuals suffering from shoulder discomfort may not realize that the source of their issue might be linked to jaw function or breathing patterns.
“The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and cervical spine share muscles and nerve connections, which can contribute to referred pain in the head, neck, and shoulders.”
National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)
“Poor posture, particularly forward head position, increases load on the neck and shoulder muscles and can aggravate temporomandibular disorders.”
Journal of Oral Rehabilitation
Individuals with TMJ dysfunction or sleep-disordered breathing frequently experience persistent tightness in the upper trapezius, sternocleidomastoid, and shoulder girdle muscles. Over time, this can result in fatigue, nerve compression, and limited mobility. By recognizing the structural and airway issues that lead to overactivity, our approach helps to restore equilibrium within the entire musculoskeletal system.
When To Seek Treatment
The following signs may suggest that your shoulder pain is linked to TMJ dysfunction or an imbalance in airway-related muscles:
Referred pain may begin near the jaw or upper neck and can extend into the shoulder blade or upper arm.
Co-contraction of muscles between the jaw and shoulders often occurs with TMJ clenching or airway strain during sleep.
Challenges in lifting or rotating the arm can result from enduring protective tension within the neck and shoulder stabilizers.
Forward head position, airway constriction, and stress-induced clenching all contribute to increased shoulder strain and fatigue.
Relief begins with the right diagnosis
Pain in the shoulder can originate in areas like the jaw, neck, or airway rather than the joint itself. At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Kansas City, our holistic method helps restore equilibrium, alleviates tension, and reduces the risk of future episodes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shoulder Pain
Shoulder discomfort may arise from muscles, joints, or nerve pathways, and often, the source of pain is not where the sensation is felt. This information clarifies the link between TMJ and airway function to upper body pain.
TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre
Global Expertise
As proud members of TMJ International, we are part of a global team dedicated to advancing collaborative care in TMJ disorders and sleep therapy. Together, we bring innovation, expertise, and compassionate treatment to help patients find lasting relief and a healthier quality of life.
If you’re struggling with jaw pain, headaches, or sleep issues, the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Kansas City is here to help. Our team specializes in non-surgical TMJ and sleep therapy solutions designed to restore comfort and improve your quality of life.
Over 70 Centres
Decades