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  • Vertigo & BPPV Diagnosis and Treatment

BPPV Diagnosis and Treatment in Surrey | Osteopath Care for Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo, often abbreviated to BPPV, is one of the most common causes of dizziness and balance disorders we see in clinic. While the condition itself is not life-threatening, the impact on quality of life can be profound. Patients describe sudden spinning sensations when turning in bed, looking up, or even bending forward to tie their shoes. For some, these episodes last only seconds, but the anxiety and loss of confidence in movement can linger far longer.
At Key Osteopaths, our osteopaths specialise in understanding not just the physical symptoms of BPPV but also the wider effects on day-to-day living. Because dizziness can sometimes overlap with conditions such as vestibular neuritis, Ménière’s disease, migraine-associated vertigo, or even neurological disorders, it is important that assessment is both thorough and evidence-based. Our role is to distinguish what is truly BPPV and then provide safe, effective management tailored to the individual.
If you are struggling with recurrent dizziness or disorientating spinning sensations, early assessment can make all the difference. Booking an appointment with one of our osteopaths allows us to identify the root cause and, where appropriate, use gentle manual techniques alongside recognised repositioning manoeuvres to help restore balance.
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What Is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)?

BPPV occurs when tiny calcium carbonate crystals (known as otoconia) in the inner ear become displaced into the semicircular canals of the vestibular system. These crystals are normally embedded in the utricle, where they play a role in sensing gravity and movement. When they migrate into the fluid-filled canals, head movements can trigger abnormal signals to the brain, creating the hallmark spinning or vertigo sensations.
Our osteopaths often explain BPPV as a “mechanical fault” in the balance system. The inner ear contains delicate structures that send information about motion and orientation to the brain. When otoconia are in the wrong place, the messages become distorted. This is why everyday actions such as lying down, rolling over in bed, or tipping the head back can suddenly trigger vertigo.
Although BPPV is labelled “benign,” meaning it is not life-threatening, the symptoms can be highly disruptive. The sudden onset of dizziness can increase the risk of falls, particularly in older adults. Some patients also develop secondary anxiety, fearing the next unpredictable episode. Our osteopaths recognise this and provide reassurance, education, and treatment strategies that address both the physical and emotional aspects of living with vertigo.
If you have experienced unexplained dizziness, even if symptoms come and go, we encourage you to seek professional advice. Not all dizziness is caused by BPPV, and ruling out more serious conditions is an important step. A consultation with our osteopaths at Key Osteopaths ensures you receive a clear explanation, a safe diagnosis, and guidance on the most effective treatment options available.

The Mechanics of Balance and the Inner Ear

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The human balance system relies on a complex interaction between the eyes, the proprioceptive system (sensors in muscles and joints), and the vestibular apparatus in the inner ear. Inside the inner ear are three semicircular canals, positioned at right angles to each other, and two otolith organs called the utricle and saccule. These structures detect head movement, acceleration, and gravity.
When working correctly, the vestibular system sends precise information to the brain about where the body is in space. This data is integrated with signals from the eyes and body, allowing smooth coordination and stable vision even during rapid movements. When something interferes with this finely tuned system, such as displaced calcium particles, the mismatch between signals can cause vertigo, dizziness, or imbalance.
Understanding how these mechanisms work is essential for accurate diagnosis, since balance problems can originate from the ear, the neck, or even the central nervous system.
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How Calcium Crystals in the Vestibular System Cause Vertigo

At the root of BPPV are the otoconia, microscopic calcium carbonate crystals that normally sit within the utricle. These crystals are part of the body’s gravity-sensing system. When they become dislodged, often through age-related changes, minor head trauma, or spontaneous degeneration, they can migrate into the semicircular canals.
Once in the canal, the crystals interfere with the fluid movement that normally signals head position to the brain. This abnormal stimulation creates the sudden spinning sensation typical of BPPV. Even small shifts in head position, such as rolling over in bed or tilting the head back, can provoke intense vertigo lasting seconds to minutes.
It is important to note that the crystals themselves are not harmful, but their presence in the wrong part of the ear confuses the balance system. This explains why BPPV symptoms often appear suddenly and can recur unpredictably. Recognising this underlying mechanism helps distinguish BPPV from other causes of dizziness, such as blood pressure changes or neurological disorders.

Recognising the Difference Between BPPV and Other Dizziness Disorders

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One of the challenges in clinical practice is that dizziness is a common symptom with many possible origins. BPPV has distinctive features: short episodes of vertigo triggered by specific head movements, often without hearing loss or persistent imbalance once the episode passes.
By contrast, conditions such as Ménière’s disease may involve prolonged vertigo attacks accompanied by tinnitus and hearing changes. Vestibular neuritis can cause constant dizziness lasting days, while migraine-associated vertigo may present with light sensitivity and visual aura. Cardiovascular and neurological issues can also produce lightheadedness or disequilibrium, but these do not follow the same head-position pattern seen in BPPV.
Recognising these distinctions is vital for safe and effective treatment. Careful assessment ensures patients are not misdiagnosed and that any serious underlying causes are identified promptly. Early clarity not only provides reassurance but also helps guide whether repositioning manoeuvres, vestibular rehabilitation, or onward referral is the most appropriate course of action.
If you or a loved one are struggling with dizziness or vertigo symptoms, contact Key Osteopaths in Surrey today to schedule a consultation and find out how tailored osteopathic care can help restore balance and confidence in daily life.
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Common Symptoms of BPPV Our Patients Experience

BPPV can affect people in very different ways, but there are certain hallmark symptoms that make the condition recognisable. Some individuals notice only mild dizziness, while others experience sudden, intense vertigo that interferes with even the simplest of daily activities. Because these sensations often appear without warning, they can be both unsettling and disruptive.

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Spinning Sensations Triggered by Simple Head Movements

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The most characteristic feature of BPPV is a sudden, spinning sensation (true vertigo) brought on by changes in head position. Common triggers include:
  • Rolling over in bed.
  • Looking up towards a shelf or ceiling.
  • Bending forward to pick something up.
These episodes are usually short, lasting seconds to a minute, but their intensity can feel overwhelming. Patients often describe the room as “whirling” or “tilting,” even though they are perfectly still. Because the symptoms are mechanical in origin, caused by displaced crystals in the inner ear, they can reliably occur with the same head movements until treated.
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Nausea, Imbalance, and Disorientation in Daily Life

Although the spinning episodes are brief, the after-effects may linger. Many people report nausea, loss of balance, or a general sense of disorientation even after the vertigo has passed. This can make walking in a straight line, concentrating at work, or simply carrying out household tasks far more difficult.
These lingering effects are not just inconvenient; they can also increase the risk of falls, particularly in older adults. For younger individuals, the condition can limit driving, sports, or any activity requiring quick changes in head position. Such limitations highlight the importance of seeking timely management rather than “waiting for it to go away.”

Why BPPV Symptoms Can Mimic More Serious Neurological Conditions

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One of the reasons dizziness can be so distressing is that it sometimes feels like a sign of something more serious. Sudden vertigo, imbalance, or eye movement changes may resemble neurological conditions such as transient ischaemic attacks (TIAs), multiple sclerosis, or even stroke. This overlap understandably causes anxiety for many patients.
However, BPPV has distinctive patterns that help separate it from central nervous system causes. Episodes are usually brief, consistently triggered by certain head movements, and not associated with weakness, slurred speech, or visual loss. That said, a careful clinical examination is always essential to confirm diagnosis and exclude other possibilities.
If you have been living with unexplained dizziness, even if episodes seem minor or infrequent, arranging a professional assessment can provide both clarity and peace of mind. At Key Osteopaths, we assess dizziness within the wider context of your health, ensuring you understand what is happening and the most effective options available to manage it.
If you are experiencing sudden spinning sensations, imbalance, or nausea linked to BPPV, book a consultation with Key Osteopaths in Surrey to learn how our evidence-based approach can support recovery and improve day-to-day function.
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Causes and Risk Factors of BPPV

Although BPPV can appear suddenly and without obvious warning, there are several known factors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition. Understanding these underlying causes not only helps explain why symptoms arise but also guides how they can be managed or prevented from recurring.

Age-Related Changes in the Vestibular System

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The most common risk factor for BPPV is age. As we grow older, the inner ear undergoes subtle but significant changes. The otoconia, the tiny calcium carbonate crystals that play a key role in detecting gravity, can become more fragile and prone to dislodging from their normal position within the utricle. Once free, they are more likely to migrate into the semicircular canals, where they disrupt the normal flow of inner ear fluid and cause vertigo.
Research shows that BPPV is particularly prevalent in people over the age of 50, with the likelihood increasing further into later decades of life. This is one reason dizziness is a leading cause of falls in older adults. Importantly, the age-related weakening of balance mechanisms does not necessarily mean that BPPV is permanent. With appropriate assessment and treatment, repositioning manoeuvres can often resolve the problem quickly and safely.
For patients who experience repeated episodes, osteopathic care can also explore wider contributing factors, such as posture, neck mobility, and overall balance strategies, to help reduce the frequency of recurrence.
If you or a family member have noticed dizziness becoming more frequent with age, a professional consultation can provide clarity on whether BPPV is the cause, and if so, what can be done to restore stability and confidence in movement.
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Links Between Head Injuries, Migraines, and Vestibular Disorders

While age is the strongest predictor of BPPV, younger adults can also develop the condition, often following trauma or pre-existing neurological conditions. Even relatively minor head injuries, such as a bump, whiplash, or concussion, can disturb the delicate structures of the inner ear. When the utricle is shaken or damaged, otoconia are more likely to dislodge and enter the semicircular canals, triggering vertigo.
Migraines represent another important association. People with a history of migraine headaches appear to be at higher risk of vestibular disorders, including BPPV. The exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it may involve vascular changes, altered neural pathways, or heightened sensitivity within the vestibular system. This overlap can make diagnosis more challenging, as migraine-associated vertigo can mimic or mask the presence of BPPV.
Other vestibular conditions such as labyrinthitis, vestibular neuritis, and Ménière’s disease can also contribute to crystal displacement or secondary balance dysfunction. In these cases, BPPV may develop as a secondary problem alongside the primary disorder. Recognising these links is essential for accurate treatment planning and for reducing the risk of ongoing dizziness.

The Connection Between Posture, Neck Function, and Vertigo Recurrence

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Not all cases of BPPV are caused by inner ear changes alone. The way the body holds itself, posture and the mechanical function of the cervical spine can play a role in both the onset and recurrence of vertigo. Poor posture, prolonged desk work, and muscular tension in the neck and shoulders may alter blood flow, nerve input, and mechanical stresses around the vestibular system.
Patients with limited cervical mobility often experience greater difficulty in tolerating repositioning manoeuvres such as the Epley technique. Likewise, strain in the muscles of the upper neck can amplify balance disturbances and contribute to dizziness sensations. Addressing these factors through osteopathic care, postural correction, and targeted exercises can help reduce recurrence and improve long-term stability.
This holistic approach means that management goes beyond simply correcting crystal displacement. By restoring neck mobility, improving posture, and strengthening balance responses, patients gain greater resilience against future episodes.
If you have noticed vertigo recurring despite previous treatment, it may be worth exploring whether musculoskeletal or postural issues are contributing. At Key Osteopaths, we integrate inner ear management with wider biomechanical assessment to give patients the best chance of long-term relief.
For a comprehensive approach to managing dizziness and balance disorders, contact Key Osteopaths in Surrey today. Our integrated treatment strategies combine gentle manual therapy, education, and repositioning manoeuvres to support long-term stability.
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How Our Osteopaths Assess BPPV

Accurately diagnosing the cause of dizziness is essential, since vertigo may arise from a wide range of inner ear, neurological, or vascular conditions. At Key Osteopaths, we use a structured approach that combines thorough questioning, hands-on testing, and, when needed, onward referral to ensure nothing important is missed.

Taking a Detailed Case History and Clinical Examination

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The first step in assessment is a comprehensive case history. We listen carefully as patients describe when the dizziness began, how long the episodes last, what movements trigger symptoms, and whether there are any associated changes such as hearing loss, headaches, or visual disturbances. Medical history, previous head or neck injuries, and family background are also considered, as these factors can increase the likelihood of vestibular disorders.
Following this, a clinical examination assesses balance, posture, cervical spine function, and neurological signs. By combining symptom history with physical findings, it becomes possible to identify whether vertigo is likely to be BPPV or part of another condition requiring further investigation.
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The Dix-Hallpike Manoeuvre and Other Diagnostic Tests

The gold-standard test for BPPV is the Dix-Hallpike manoeuvre. During this procedure, the patient is guided from a sitting position to lying down with the head extended and rotated to one side. If BPPV is present, this movement typically provokes vertigo and produces specific, observable eye movements known as nystagmus. The direction and nature of the nystagmus help confirm which semicircular canal is affected.
Other positional tests, such as the roll test, may be used to assess horizontal canal involvement. These simple but highly reliable manoeuvres provide clear evidence of whether displaced crystals are the source of dizziness.

When We Refer Patients for MRI or ENT Specialist Review

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While BPPV is common, not all dizziness originates from the inner ear. If symptoms do not follow the classic BPPV pattern, for example, if vertigo is prolonged, accompanied by hearing changes, or associated with neurological signs, further investigation is warranted. In such cases, we work collaboratively with GPs and ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialists to ensure patients receive the right investigations.
This may include referral for imaging such as MRI scans to rule out more serious conditions, or onward vestibular testing within secondary care. Our aim is to provide reassurance through clarity: either confirming a straightforward diagnosis of BPPV or ensuring other potential causes are fully excluded.
If you have been living with unexplained dizziness, arranging an assessment can bring both peace of mind and practical solutions. At Key Osteopaths, our goal is to combine precise diagnosis with safe, effective treatment tailored to your situation.
Don’t let vertigo or dizziness hold you back from living fully. Book a consultation with Key Osteopaths today and take the first step towards greater stability, reduced anxiety, and improved confidence in movement.
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Osteopathic Approaches to Managing BPPV

The management of BPPV requires both precision and a holistic view of the individual. While repositioning manoeuvres are often central to treatment, lasting results are best achieved when care also addresses musculoskeletal health, posture, and lifestyle factors that influence balance. At Key Osteopaths, treatment plans are tailored to each patient, combining evidence-based techniques with supportive strategies for long-term stability.

Repositioning Techniques Such as the Epley Manoeuvre

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The Epley manoeuvre is the most widely recognised treatment for BPPV. It involves guiding the patient through a series of specific head and body positions designed to move displaced calcium crystals out of the semicircular canals and back into the utricle, where they no longer cause symptoms.
When performed correctly, this simple sequence can provide dramatic relief, often resolving vertigo in just one or two sessions. Other manoeuvres, such as the Semont or Brandt-Daroff exercises, may also be used depending on which canal is affected and how well the patient tolerates positional changes.
Our role is not just to perform these manoeuvres but also to explain them clearly, ensuring patients understand what to expect and how to manage any temporary after-effects such as residual dizziness.
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Gentle Osteopathic Treatment for Cervical Spine and Posture

In many patients, the cervical spine and surrounding musculature play a significant role in how dizziness is experienced. Stiffness, muscular tension, or postural strain can exacerbate vertigo symptoms and make repositioning manoeuvres more difficult to tolerate.
Gentle osteopathic treatment may include soft tissue techniques, joint mobilisation, and postural correction to improve cervical mobility and reduce mechanical stress. This not only eases strain in the neck but also enhances the efficiency of vestibular reflexes, helping the body adapt more effectively after treatment.
By addressing both the inner ear and the musculoskeletal system, we aim to reduce recurrence and improve overall balance resilience.

Supporting the Vestibular System Through Lifestyle and Rehabilitation Exercises

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Osteopathic care extends beyond the treatment room. Patients with BPPV often benefit from vestibular rehabilitation exercises, simple movements designed to retrain the brain to adapt to altered balance signals. These exercises improve gaze stability, reduce sensitivity to head motion, and build confidence in daily activities.
Lifestyle advice also forms an important part of management. Adequate hydration, balanced nutrition, regular sleep, and stress management all support the nervous system’s ability to process balance information effectively. For individuals with recurrent BPPV, integrating these strategies into daily routines can reduce the frequency and severity of future episodes.
If you are struggling with dizziness that interferes with your quality of life, a consultation can provide both immediate relief and a clear plan for long-term recovery. At Key Osteopaths, we combine repositioning techniques, osteopathic treatment, and practical advice to give patients the best chance of sustained improvement.

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The Role of Holistic Osteopathy in Dizziness and Balance Disorders

BPPV is often thought of as a purely mechanical problem of the inner ear, but in reality, recovery and long-term management are influenced by the whole body. Osteopathy provides a broader perspective, recognising that circulation, nervous system function, and general wellbeing all play a role in how dizziness is experienced and whether symptoms return.
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How Improving Neck Mobility and Circulation May Reduce Recurrence

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Restricted mobility in the cervical spine can alter blood flow to the vestibular system and increase mechanical stress on balance reflexes. When muscles in the neck and shoulders remain tense for long periods, the body is less able to adapt to sudden changes in head position.
Osteopathic treatment helps by improving cervical range of motion, releasing muscular tightness, and optimising circulation. Patients often report not only reduced vertigo recurrence but also better posture, less tension, and greater ease in everyday movement. For individuals who spend long hours at desks or driving, these improvements can make a measurable difference in quality of life.
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The Importance of Stress Reduction and Nervous System Regulation

The vestibular system is closely linked to the autonomic nervous system. High stress levels can heighten dizziness symptoms, increase sensitivity to head movements, and slow down recovery. Stress also amplifies anxiety about vertigo episodes, creating a cycle that is difficult to break.
Osteopathic care integrates techniques that encourage parasympathetic activation, the “rest and digest” state, which helps calm the nervous system and reduce overall symptom sensitivity. Breathing strategies, gentle cranial techniques, and relaxation advice can complement physical treatment to create a more stable internal environment for balance regulation.

Tailored Advice on Hydration, Nutrition, and Sleep for Vestibular Health

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Lifestyle factors such as hydration, diet, and sleep play a surprisingly powerful role in dizziness management. Dehydration can worsen symptoms by affecting blood flow and inner ear function. Poor nutrition or irregular meals may destabilise blood sugar levels, while insufficient sleep increases nervous system irritability.
Guidance is therefore personalised, encouraging patients to build sustainable routines that support vestibular health. Simple strategies, such as maintaining consistent fluid intake, limiting excess caffeine or alcohol, and prioritising regular, restorative sleep, often make a noticeable difference in day-to-day stability.
If you are seeking a more complete approach to dizziness care, holistic osteopathy offers more than symptom control. It provides practical strategies that strengthen resilience and reduce the likelihood of recurrence, giving patients the confidence to return fully to their normal lives.

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Why Choose Key Osteopaths for BPPV Care

When living with dizziness, patients often tell us that the hardest part is not knowing where to turn. At Key Osteopaths, we provide clarity and reassurance by combining clinical expertise with a supportive approach to care.

Our Osteopaths’ Experience in Treating Balance and Vestibular Disorders

Over the years, we have helped many patients manage vertigo and balance problems, from straightforward cases of BPPV to more complex vestibular conditions. Our practitioners are trained to identify the subtle differences between dizziness of ear, neck, or neurological origin, ensuring treatment is both safe and effective.
We also recognise that vertigo can impact far more than just physical balance. Confidence, independence, and quality of life are often affected, which is why our care plans extend beyond symptom relief to include postural advice, lifestyle guidance, and rehabilitation strategies.
If you are looking for a clinic with experience, a thorough approach to assessment, and treatments designed for both immediate relief and long-term stability, Key Osteopaths is here to support you.

Book an Appointment With Key Osteopaths

Living with dizziness can feel frustrating, but effective help is available. Whether your vertigo has just begun or has been troubling you for months, early assessment can make a significant difference to your recovery.

Early Assessment Helps Prevent Worsening Vertigo and Prolonged Symptoms

The sooner BPPV is diagnosed, the sooner targeted treatment can begin. Left unaddressed, dizziness can increase the risk of falls, lead to unnecessary anxiety, and in some cases become more resistant to correction. A prompt evaluation allows us to identify the underlying cause and start repositioning or rehabilitation strategies right away.

How to Arrange a Consultation With Our Osteopaths Today

Booking an appointment with Key Osteopaths is straightforward. You can contact our clinic directly by phone or through our online booking system, and we will arrange a convenient time for your consultation. During your first visit, you’ll receive a clear explanation of your symptoms, a safe assessment, and a tailored plan to help restore balance and confidence.
Don’t let dizziness control your daily life. Taking the first step towards assessment is often the most important move in regaining stability. Contact Key Osteopaths today and begin your path to recovery.
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Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ / Jaw Pain Treatment

Q: Can osteopathy help with TMJ and jaw pain?

A: Yes, osteopathy can be an effective treatment option for TMJ and jaw pain. Osteopathic treatment focuses on restoring proper alignment, function, and mobility of the temporomandibular joint and surrounding structures. Through manual therapy techniques, joint mobilisation, and soft tissue manipulation, osteopaths can help relieve pain, reduce inflammation, improve jaw function, and promote healing.

Q: How many osteopathic sessions are usually required for TMJ and jaw pain treatment?

A: The number of osteopathic sessions required for TMJ and jaw pain treatment can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the individual’s response to treatment. Some individuals may experience relief after a few sessions, while others may require ongoing treatment over a longer period. The osteopath will assess your specific condition and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Q: Are there any side effects or risks associated with osteopathic treatment for TMJ and jaw pain?

A: Osteopathic treatment for TMJ and jaw pain is generally safe and well-tolerated. However, as with any manual therapy, some individuals may experience mild soreness or discomfort following treatment. These effects are typically temporary and resolve within a short period. It’s important to communicate any concerns or unusual symptoms with your osteopath during the treatment process.

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Q: Can lifestyle modifications help in managing TMJ and jaw pain?

A: Yes, lifestyle modifications can play a supportive role in managing TMJ and jaw pain. Some helpful modifications may include practicing stress management techniques, avoiding excessive jaw movements (such as chewing gum), practicing good posture, avoiding hard or chewy foods, and applying heat or cold packs to the affected area. Your osteopath can provide specific recommendations based on your condition and lifestyle.

Q: Can TMJ and jaw pain be completely cured with osteopathic treatment?

A: The effectiveness of osteopathic treatment for TMJ and jaw pain varies from person to person. While some individuals may experience significant relief and improvement, others may find that symptoms are better managed but not completely eliminated. Osteopathic treatment aims to reduce pain, improve function, and enhance overall well-being. It’s important to have realistic expectations and work closely with your osteopath to achieve the best possible outcome.

Q: Can children receive osteopathic treatment for TMJ and jaw pain?

A: Yes, children can receive osteopathic treatment for TMJ and jaw pain. Osteopathic techniques can be adapted to suit the age and condition of the child, providing gentle and effective relief. It’s important to consult with an experienced pediatric osteopath who specialises in treating children to ensure safe and appropriate care.