Does your jaw lock when you yawn? You’re not alone!
Does your jaw lock when you yawn? You’re not alone.
This video responds to a common viewer question about “open lock jaw”—a condition where your jaw gets stuck in an open position during yawning or wide opening.
As a healthcare provider, I want to be clear:
There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but there are several possible causes that you and your musculoskeletal therapist can explore.
🔍 Possible Causes:
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Disc displacement forward: The disc in your jaw may shift forward due to stiffness or clenching, blocking your jaw from closing after a big yawn.
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Opposite side compensation: Sometimes, the issue comes from the other side of the jaw being stiff, forcing the jaw into an open-lock state.
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Rare disc backward displacement: In some unusual cases, the disc may be positioned backward, preventing your jaw from closing fully.
🔧 Important:
Each case requires a different approach, which is why it’s essential to consult with a physiotherapist, chiropractor, or osteopath experienced in treating TMJ (jaw joint) issues.
Ignoring this condition can lead to long-term complications like arthritis, jaw pain, or difficulty eating and speaking.
🗣️ Seek help early, and don’t wait for it to become a chronic issue!
Happy Rehab,
Cheers,
Metro Physiotherapy Channel
🌐 www.metrophysiotherapy.com.au
📌 This video is for general education only. Please seek your own individual assessment and treatment.