Tiny Jaws, Big Relief: How Craniosacral Therapy Supports Kids with TMJ
Gentle, hands-on care to soothe jaw tension and support growing bodies
When your child complains of jaw pain, hears clicks while chewing, or grinds their teeth at night, it’s easy to chalk it up to “just growing.” But these may be signs of TMJ dysfunction (Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction)—and yes, kids can absolutely experience it too.
At Same Stars Wellness, we understand how frustrating and concerning this can be—for both kids and their caregivers. That’s why we offer Craniosacral Therapy (CST) as a gentle, effective option to help children feel better in their bodies and release tension where it starts.
What Is Craniosacral Therapy?
Craniosacral Therapy is a subtle, hands-on technique that supports the body’s natural healing rhythm. Using a feather-light touch—no more than the weight of a nickel—your therapist works with the bones of the skull, spine, and pelvis, as well as the tissues and fluids surrounding the central nervous system.
For kids, it often feels like lying down for a quiet rest. There’s no cracking or intense manipulation—just calm, steady contact that helps reset the nervous system and gently unwind tension from the inside out.
How CST Helps Kids with TMJ
The temporomandibular joints (located on either side of the jaw) are some of the most frequently used and sensitive joints in the body. When these joints are tight, misaligned, or inflamed, children may experience:
Jaw pain or clicking sounds
Difficulty chewing or biting
Headaches
Facial tightness
Neck and shoulder discomfort
Sleep disruptions or irritability
CST addresses the underlying tension patterns that can contribute to jaw dysfunction. Because it supports the entire craniosacral system, the treatment doesn’t just focus on the jaw—it helps release tightness in the neck, skull, and surrounding connective tissue. The result? Better alignment, greater comfort, and improved mobility overall.
Why Kids Respond So Well to CST
Children’s bodies are naturally responsive and resilient. They often hold onto stress in ways they can’t express—clenching their jaws during class, grinding teeth in their sleep, or adopting postures that add strain. CST can help by:
Promoting deep relaxation and emotional regulation
Encouraging healthy jaw development
Supporting alignment during growth spurts
Reducing the frequency and severity of flare-ups
Creating a calm, grounded state in the nervous system
Plus, many kids love how still and peaceful the experience is—it’s often a welcome pause in a busy or overstimulating day.
Safe, Specialized, and Trauma-Informed
Our CST therapists are experienced in working with kids of all ages, including those with sensory processing differences, anxiety, or a history of medical trauma. We always work at your child’s pace, with clear communication, age-appropriate explanations, and comfort strategies tailored to each child.
Book a CST Appointment for Your Child
If your child is showing signs of TMJ—or could benefit from a gentle, regulation-focused approach to care—we’d love to support them.
You can book online or contact our team directly. We’re always happy to answer your questions and help you find the right fit.
Let’s help your child feel more at ease in their body—starting with the jaw, and expanding far beyond.
