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TMJ Occipital Pain

The temporomandibular joint, which is commonly referred to as TMJ, is the joint that is located right below the ear that connects the mandible to the skull. TMJ disorders result in pain, including occipital pain.

  1. Symptoms

    • Occipital pain that is caused by TMJ disorder often includes pain in the back of the head that begins in the upper neck, at the base of the skull. It can occur on both sides of the head or on a single side of the head.

    Type of Pain

    • Occipital pain caused by TMJ disorder is described as throbbing pain. It can be infrequent, can occur several times per day or can be chronic.

    Causes

    • TMJ disorders that result in occipital pain are believed to be caused by teeth grinding, injury to the jaw, arthritis and stress.

    Diagnosis

    • Occipital pain that is linked to TMJ disorder can be diagnosed through a physical exam that reveals tenderness in the head, X-rays that reveal abnormalities, limited range of motion and sensation that is reduced in the back of the head.

    Treatment

    • Treatment for occipital pain that is caused by TMJ disorder includes pain medication, muscle relaxers, local injections, wearing a soft, cervical collar and, in extreme cases, surgery.

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