TMJ Back Pain

    For Patients

    Understanding Back Pain & TMJ

    Are you struggling with unexplained back pain? Back pain can sometimes be a symptom related to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of the Greater Toronto Area, we recognize the complex connection between your jaw and back muscles, and how dysfunction in one area can impact the other.

    What is TMJ-related Back Pain?

    TMJ disorders occur when the temporomandibular joint—the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull—doesn’t function properly. This dysfunction can lead to tension and discomfort in surrounding muscles, including those in the back. Misalignment or inflammation of the TMJ can cause referred pain, meaning discomfort radiates from the jaw to other areas, such as the shoulders, neck, and lower back.

    Common Symptoms:

    • Persistent pain or stiffness in the lower back
    • Limited range of motion in the back and shoulders
    • Headaches that begin at the base of the skull
    • Pain that intensifies with jaw movement
    • Radiating pain into the upper or lower back

    If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it might be time to consider that your back pain could be linked to TMJ dysfunction.

    Why Choose Us For Back Pain Relief?

    Our team is experienced in diagnosing and treating TMJ-related issues. With cutting-edge diagnostic tools and a comprehensive approach to care, we focus on addressing the root cause of your back pain rather than just the symptoms. Our personalized treatment plans are designed to reduce pain, enhance mobility, and restore your quality of life.

    By choosing the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of the Greater Toronto Area, you’re opting for comprehensive care from skilled  TMJ dentists who understand the complexities of TMJ and its related symptoms, including back pain.

    Don’t let back pain control your life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out how we can help alleviate your discomfort.

    Back Pain Relief in Toronto

    Back Pain FAQs – TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of the Greater Toronto Area

    Q. Can TMJ cause back pain?

    A. Many patients ask, can TMJ cause back pain, and in some cases, the answer may be yes. Jaw joint dysfunction can affect posture, muscle balance, and tension throughout the body, which may contribute to discomfort beyond the face and jaw.

    Q. What is the connection between TMJ and back pain?

    A. TMJ back pain may occur when jaw misalignment or chronic clenching creates strain in the neck and shoulders. Over time, this imbalance can extend downward, impacting the upper back and spine.

    Q. Can TMJ contribute to low back discomfort?

    A. Some patients report symptoms of TMJ low back pain, especially when muscle tension and posture changes are involved. While back pain can have many causes, jaw-related muscle strain may play a role for certain individuals.

    Q. What are common back pain causes unrelated to TMJ?

    A. Back pain causes can include poor posture, injury, arthritis, muscle overuse, or spinal conditions. A thorough evaluation helps determine whether symptoms may be linked to TMJ dysfunction or another source.

    Q. Why do I experience upper back pain with jaw tension?

    A. Upper back pain can sometimes develop alongside TMJ symptoms due to tight muscles in the shoulders, neck, and jaw working together. Stress-related clenching may increase tension across these connected muscle groups.

    Q. What treatment options may help if TMJ is contributing to back pain?

    A. If jaw dysfunction appears to be related to posture or muscle strain, treatment may include oral appliances, jaw-focused therapy, and supportive approaches aimed at reducing tension throughout the head, neck, and back.

    Learn more about what our patients have to say

    about the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of the Greater Toronto Area

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    Jill Krstajic profile picture
    Jill Krstajic
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    It is not an understatement to say that Dr Goodfellow and his staff have greatly improved the quality of my life! My TMJ pain was unbearable and as a Dental Hygienist I was actually skeptical that the treatment would work, it did and I am grateful! I would gladly recommend Dr Goodfellow for anyone suffering TMJ and Sleep Issues.
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    Lanndis De Lallo profile picture
    Lanndis De Lallo
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    This device changed my life. I have had TMJ for as long as I can remember with a long history of orthodontic work from childhood. For the first time as an adult, I can control my jaw pain, clicking, locking and tension headaches with the night time appliance, which I wear every night - I can feel the difference even going one night without it. The daytime appliance also makes a big difference and now I can wear it periodically. Dr. Goodfellow, Cathie, Tina and the entire team are delightful, helpful and I can't thank them enough for helping me implement this life changing, non-surgical solution to my TMJ!
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    Steve McDonald profile picture
    Steve McDonald
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    Before being treated by Dr. Goodfellow I had severe jaw pain so bad I sometimes could hardly eat. That pain is now virtually gone. I am so grateful and I highly recommend Dr. Goodfellow!
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    Julia Leclerc profile picture
    Julia Leclerc
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    I suffered from severe jaw pain and eventually jaw locking. Dr. Goodfellow not only was able to diagnose the issue, he was able to completely redirect my jaw and sleeping patterns with the mouth guard that I now wear to sleep every night. I don’t even get headaches anymore! The difference has been incredible and I am forever grateful. Highly recommend Dr. Goodfellow and his staff.
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    Sandy Hale profile picture
    Sandy Hale
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    I feel very positive about the treatment I received from Dr. Goodfellow and his team over a six month period. My TMJ disorder symptoms have been resolved to the point where I am almost pain free every day. Dr. Goodfellow helped me to understand both the causes of my jaw issues and how the treatments would work towards healing. His staff are friendly, accommodating and extremely knowledgeable and helped to allay any fears I had about treatments. I highly recommend TMJ & Sleep Therapy to any and all persons suffering from TMJ disorders.
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    Anthony Hajsan profile picture
    Anthony Hajsan
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    Dr. Goodfellow is a good fellow (I know, so original)! This is the only place that has helped with my TMJ.
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    oren dishy profile picture
    oren dishy
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    I've had a click in my jaw for over 30 years and over the past year it was constant pain and difficulty chewing. Dr. Goodfellow and his staff provided me with a non-invasive appliance one for the day and one for night and within 6 months I was pain and click free. It's as if I have brand new jaw with no issues whatsoever. Without a doubt, the best medical treatment I've ever received. I would give six stars if it was available.
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    Paula Carmona-Murphy profile picture
    Paula Carmona-Murphy
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    After years of dealing with TMJ pain (and trying different types of appliances) I saw Dr. Goodfellow. I am thrilled with the results. Dr. Goodfellow and his staff are amazing!
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    Shicheng Wu profile picture
    Shicheng Wu
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    Solved on my jaw pain and overbite issues in an efficient way.