Muscle pain is a common experience, yet discomfort stemming from smaller, less recognized muscles can often go overlooked. Among these, the digastric muscle stands out as a frequent, though sometimes unrecognized, source of pain in the jaw and neck region. While it is a relatively small muscle, pain originating from the digastric can be significant, potentially impacting everyday activities such as eating, speaking, and yawning.
Understanding the Digastric Muscle
The digastric muscle is a paired muscle located beneath the lower jaw, characterized by its unique two-bellied structure. It extends from the mastoid process, a bony prominence behind the ear, to the lower jawbone (mandible), with an intermediate tendon connecting its two bellies near the hyoid bone in the neck. This muscle plays an important role in the complex mechanics of the jaw and throat.
Its primary functions include depressing the mandible, which allows for the opening of the mouth. The digastric muscle also assists in elevating the hyoid bone and larynx, processes crucial for swallowing and speech. To locate it, one can gently feel under the chin, along the jawline, particularly when opening the mouth.
Common Causes of Digastric Muscle Pain
Pain in the digastric muscle often arises from various forms of overuse or tension. Engaging in activities that require extensive jaw movement, such as prolonged talking, singing, or frequent wide yawning, can strain this muscle. Similarly, playing certain wind instruments can also contribute to its overuse.
Another common factor is jaw clenching or teeth grinding, medically known as bruxism. This habit, often linked to stress or occurring unconsciously during sleep, places sustained pressure and tension on the jaw muscles, including the digastric, leading to discomfort. Poor posture, particularly a forward head position, can also contribute by increasing overall tension in the jaw and neck muscles. This altered alignment can force the digastric to work harder to maintain jaw position.
Issues with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jawbone to the skull, can also manifest as digastric muscle pain. Since the digastric muscle is involved in jaw movement, dysfunction or inflammation within the TMJ can cause referred pain or secondary tension in this muscle. Dental procedures, especially those requiring the mouth to be open for extended periods, or underlying dental problems like wisdom teeth issues, can irritate or strain the digastric. Sometimes, pain originating from digastric trigger points can even be mistaken for tooth pain. Additionally, chronic mouth breathing can keep the digastric muscles in a shortened position, potentially leading to trigger points and persistent pain.
Relieving Digastric Muscle Pain at Home
Managing digastric muscle pain at home often involves a combination of rest and targeted self-care strategies. Allowing the jaw to rest by limiting excessive movements, such as chewing gum or hard foods, can significantly reduce strain on the muscle. Applying either ice packs or warm compresses to the affected area can help alleviate discomfort and reduce muscle tension.
Gentle self-massage techniques can also provide relief. Applying sustained, light pressure under the chin, along the jawline, or near the angle of the jaw can help release muscle tightness. Specific stretching exercises are beneficial, such as placing your thumbs under your chin while pressing your tongue firmly against the roof of your mouth. Another effective stretch involves gently tilting the head backward while protruding the chin, which can help lengthen the digastric muscle.
Modifying eating habits by choosing softer foods can reduce the workload on the jaw muscles, promoting healing. Practicing stress reduction techniques can also be helpful, as stress often contributes to jaw clenching and muscle tension. Maintaining good posture throughout the day helps align the head and neck, reducing undue strain on the digastric and surrounding muscles. Focusing on nasal breathing rather than mouth breathing can also prevent the digastric muscles from becoming overly shortened and tense.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While many instances of digastric muscle pain can be managed with home remedies, there are situations when professional medical evaluation is advisable. You should consider seeking medical attention if the pain is persistent, worsening, or does not improve after a reasonable period of home care, typically about a week. Intense pain that interferes with daily routines, such as eating, speaking, or opening the mouth, warrants a visit to a healthcare provider.
Other red flags include:
- Pain accompanied by a fever or noticeable swelling in the jaw or neck area.
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing, or a severe limitation in jaw movement.
- New clicking or popping sounds in your jaw with pain, or changes in how your teeth align.
- Pain radiating to other parts of the face, ears, or accompanied by headaches or vision changes.