Clinically informed holistic
massage for the face, head + neck
TMJ DYSFUNCTION | FACIAL TENSION | HEADACHES + MIGRAINES
Welcome!
I am so glad you’re here.
Many people come to my practice feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, or unsure where to turn. My goal is to provide thoughtful care that helps you feel heard, supported, and more comfortable in your body.
Whether your symptoms are new or something you’ve been managing for years, meaningful improvement is possible. If you’re looking for support with your TMJ symptoms, I would be honored to be a part of your care. ♡
Hi, I’m Regan
Licensed Massage Therapist • Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant • Manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapist
Originally opened in 2014 as Opal Massage, Innate Balance has evolved into the TMJ-focused practice it is today. My work centers on the jaw, face, head, and neck, drawing from my background as a Physical Therapist Assistant, advanced massage training, and myofunctional therapy principles.
My first exposure to TMJ dysfunction came in my twenties, while working as a dental assistant and seeing patients struggle with jaw pain and related symptoms. Years later, when I experienced TMJ issues myself, it gave me a deeper appreciation for how challenging and frustrating these issues can be.
As my interest in TMJ care grew, I pursued additional education in TMJ dysfunction, headaches, face and intraoral massage, and myofunctional therapy. I continue to refine my skills through ongoing education, mentoring, and collaboration with dentists, physical therapists, and myofunctional therapists.
My goal is to help clients better understand their symptoms, feel less overwhelmed, and feel more at ease in their bodies.
What is TMJ?
TMJ is an acronym for the temporomandibular joint — two small, intricate joints in front of our ears that work together as a unit and connect our lower jaw to our skull. As synovial joints, like our shoulders and knees, the TM joints work hard every day, helping us eat, speak, swallow, sing, kiss, and communicate through facial expressions.
TMJ Disorders: conditions affecting the TMJ, chewing muscles, and related structures. An estimated 65% of people will experience symptoms during their lifetime; it’s most prevalent from the ages of 20-50, and is more common in women.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
Pain in jaw and surrounding area
Clicking and popping
Clenching, grinding day or night
Fatigue or pain when chewing
Headaches
Neck, shoulder, and upper back pain
Tinnitus, ear pain or fullness
Limited range of motion
General facial tension and fatigue
While TMJ disorders can have many contributing factors, muscle tension often plays an important role in jaw pain, headaches, neck pain, and facial discomfort. Massage therapy can help reduce tension in the jaw, face, head, and neck, which may help reduce pain and improve function.
Many clients also find the treatment helps calm the nervous system and increase awareness of tension patterns that may be contributing to their symptoms.
Because TMJ disorders are often multifactorial, massage therapy is most effective when used as part of a collaborative approach to care.
What causes a TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorders have many contributing factors, but some major causes are:
Stress
Clenching and grinding
Overuse
Posture
Neck issues
Trauma
Hypermobility
Other treatments
A collaborative approach is best for TMJ disorders — using different methods of care as appropriate. Most people benefit from a conservative treatment plan.
In addition to massage therapy, other types of care are recommended for long-term change:
Homecare exercises
Physical therapy
Myofunctional therapy
Dental care
Acupuncture
Chiropractic care
I use a combination of massage techniques on the jaw, face, scalp, and neck to help reduce TMJ-related pain and tension. Intraoral massage allows a deeper release of the jaw and facial muscles. Every client is unique, so your first appointment includes a comprehensive intake to better understand your symptoms, goals, and concerns. This helps guide a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
• Kind Words •
Hours
Monday - Friday
By appointment only
Email
regan@innatebalancetmj.com
Phone
(907) 441-7623
Text message is preferred!