Can Correcting Forward Head Posture Improve TMJ Pain?

Picture of Shelinder Ramlochan

Shelinder Ramlochan

Can Fixing Forward Head Posture Help Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Pain?

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD) is a common source of jaw pain, clicking, headaches, and difficulty opening the mouth. The problem may not start in the jaw alone, it may begin in the neck.

A 2026 study explored whether correcting forward head posture (FHP) could improve TMJ symptoms. The study followed 21 adults with both TMD and FHP for six weeks. One group received standard TMJ therapy plus cervical extension traction, while the other received TMJ therapy with a placebo pillow.

The results were encouraging. Both groups improved in pain and mouth opening, but the posture‑correction group showed greater improvements in forward head posture and TMJ severity, especially by week six. The study noted that adding FHP correction may offer benefits for chronic TMD symptoms.

Why does posture matter?
When the head shifts forward, it increases strain on the jaw muscles and changes how the TMJ moves. Correcting FHP can reduce muscle tension, improve cervical alignment, and support healthier jaw mechanics.

For patients dealing with jaw pain, headaches, or facial tension, addressing posture especially forward head posture, may be an important part of long‑term relief. If you’re experiencing TMJ symptoms and suspect posture may be involved, a structural evaluation can help determine whether cervical alignment is contributing to your discomfort.

Reference
Zadeh SA, Shousha T, Moustafa IM, Khowailed I, Harrison DE. Does forward head posture correction improve temporomandibular joint dysfunction? A pilot randomized trial using a cervical extension traction orthotic. J Osteopath Med. 2025. doi:10.1515/jom-2025-0081

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40960141/

Picture of Shelinder Ramlochan

Shelinder Ramlochan

Dr. Shel attended the University of Central Florida where he received his Bachelor’s degree in Science. He then attended chiropractic college at Life University in Marietta Georgia. There he became the President of the Chiropractic Biophysics club and earned his basic certification in Chiropractic Biophysics. After earning his Doctor of Chiropractic degree, Dr. Shel moved to Idaho to advance his skills in Chiropractic Biophysics (CBP).

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