Muscle pain in the face or head/neck area is often related to overuse, strain, or underlying conditions. Overuse includes habits such as clenching or grinding the teeth, poor body posture etc. can overwork these muscles, leading to soreness, tension, and discomfort.

Myofascial pain is a type of muscle pain that affects soft tissues, especially the muscles used for chewing, speaking, and facial movement but can affect the cervical (neck) muscles too. It can involve sensitive trigger points (knots in the muscle) that cause pain in the jaw, face, head, or neck.

Referred muscle pain happens when pain is felt in a different location from where it comes from. For example, a tight jaw or neck muscle may cause pain in the face, ear, or even teeth —even in absence of any pathology or issues in the areas of perceived pain. This type of pain is often caused by trigger points—tight, sensitive spots in muscles that “refer” pain elsewhere.

• Poor posture (especially forward head posture)
• Stress or anxiety causing muscle tension
• Overuse of jaw muscles (chewing gum, nail biting)
• Injury or strain to the jaw or neck area
• Teeth grinding or clenching (often during sleep)

• Apply moist heat or cold packs
• Gently stretch and massage the jaw and neck muscles
• Avoid hard or chewy foods
• Limit jaw movements like wide yawning
• Reduce stress with relaxation or breathing techniques
• Custom oral appliances or nightguards can be helpful in certain cases
• Physical therapy (manual therapy, posture correction, exercises)
• Trigger point therapy or dry needling
• Medications for muscle relaxation or pain relief