Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder can be a painful condition affecting the jaw joint and muscles that control jaw movement. While acupuncture can be used as a complementary therapy for TMJ treatment, it’s important to to consult with a qualified acupuncturist or healthcare provider for personalized advice.
That being said, there are several acupuncture points commonly used for TMJ treatment. Here are a few examples:
1. SI18 (Small Intestine 18) – Located on the side of the face, directly below the earlobe in a depression when the mouth is opened. It is believed to help relax the jaw muscles.
2. ST6 (Stomach 6) – Found on the lower jaw, directly below the pupil when looking straight ahead. It may help relieve jaw tension and pain.
3. GB20 (Gallbladder 20) – Situated at the base of the skull, in the hollows between the vertical muscles. It is thought to promote muscle relaxation and relieve jaw tension.
4. LI4 (Large Intestine 4) – Located on the hand, in the webbing between the thumb and index finger. This point is used for pain relief in various conditions and may be beneficial for TMJ discomfort.
It’s important to remember that acupuncture should be administered by a trained professional who can determine the most appropriate points to use based on an individual’s specific symptoms and diagnosis. They may choose to use a combination of points to address the underlying causes of TMJ disorder.