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. ♡

smiling blonde haired woman in black t-shirt in front of brown fence

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

woman lying on back receiving jaw massage

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 •

  • Jeanine on Google

    “I've been seeing Regan for several months now for headaches and neck pain related to my TMJ. If you suffer from jaw pain just book the appointment! My headaches are gone. My jaw and neck haven't felt this relaxed in forever.”

  • Alex

    “Regan is always warm, welcoming, and open. The biggest thing that sets her apart is that she truly cares about making you feel better. She will listen to everything you say, and communicates exactly the best way she can help you.”

  • Gabby on Google

    “[Regan] is incredibly knowledgeable on the muscles and specific techniques to help relax the muscles and it’s been a massive game changer in my journey in helping find relief with my TMJ.”

  • Rachel on Google

    “Each session is the perfect balance between doing the work & calming the nervous system. She manages to unlock tricky to describe places in the face, head, and neck, resulting in a balance that is noticeable and lasting.”

  • Jae on Google

    “Regan's intuitive touch and deep understanding of the body's energy points work wonders. Each stroke is deliberate, releasing tension and promoting relaxation. The massage is more than just physical; it's an emotional and spiritual journey.”

  • Ann

    “I’ve been getting massages from Regan for years, and I don’t go to anyone else! She is professional, caring, and skilled. I feel comfortable letting her know what I need.”

  • Peggy

    “She is always attentive to my requests and listens carefully as I describe my concerns and then addresses them with just the right amount of pressure in the problem areas.”

Hours
Monday - Friday
By appointment only

Email
regan@innatebalancetmj.com

Phone
(907) 441-7623

Text message is preferred!