6 COMMON CAUSES OF TMJ FLARE-UPS

Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a common condition causing chronic muscle pain, tension, and discomfort in the muscles and surrounding connective tissue, called fascia. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ in Richland, WA, Dr. Jared Bloxham helps patients manage myofascial pain, TMJ disorders, and related headaches and migraines, offering personalized treatment plans for long-lasting relief. What is Myofascial Pain Syndrome? MPS occurs when sensitive areas in the muscles, known as trigger points, become inflamed or tense. These trigger points—often called muscle knots—can cause: Localized pain in the affected muscle Referred pain that spreads to the head, jaw, neck, or face, often contributing to headaches and migraines Trigger points can be classified as: Latent Trigger Points: Dormant but can become painful under stress Active Trigger Points: Cause pain when stimulated Satellite Trigger Points: Reduce tension when near another trigger point Secondary Trigger Points: Develop in the same muscle as an active point, increasing discomfort Signs and Symptoms Myofascial pain and TMJ-related headaches can show up in many ways, including: Jaw pain, stiffness, or clicking Facial pain and tenderness Neck and shoulder tension Headaches or migraines triggered by jaw or neck strain Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism) Reduced jaw mobility Patients often notice that headaches or migraines worsen after long periods of jaw tension or stress, highlighting the connection between MPS and craniofacial pain. How Myofascial Pain Contributes to TMJ and Headaches Tension in the jaw and surrounding muscles can trigger TMJ disorders, which frequently cause headaches and migraines. Chronic teeth grinding or jaw clenching places extra stress on the temporomandibular joint, resulting in persistent pain that affects daily life, sleep, and overall well-being. Effective Treatments for Myofascial Pain, Headaches, and TMJ At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, Dr. Jared Bloxham offers a range of conservative, non-surgical treatments for myofascial pain, TMJ, and related headaches or migraines: Trigger Point Injections: Targeted therapy to relax tight muscles and reduce pain Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): Non-invasive treatment to decrease inflammation and promote healing PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) Therapy: Supports natural tissue regeneration and joint recovery Custom TMJ Oral Appliances: Reduce jaw strain, prevent teeth grinding, and alleviate tension headaches Guided Muscle Exercises: Stretching and strengthening techniques to relieve trigger points and improve function Each treatment plan is personalized to the patient’s symptoms, targeting both headache relief and TMJ pain relief. Why Early Treatment Matters Ignoring myofascial pain and TMJ-related headaches can lead to: Worsening headaches or migraines Chronic jaw and facial pain Disrupted sleep Reduced quality of life Early intervention helps reduce pain, restore proper muscle function, and prevent long-term complications. Take the First Step Toward Relief If you’re experiencing jaw pain, TMJ discomfort, headaches, migraines, or myofascial pain in Richland, Kennewick, Pasco, or surrounding Tri-Cities, WA, contact Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ today. Dr. Jared Bloxham will create a personalized treatment plan to relieve pain, improve sleep, and enhance your quality of life. 📞 Call now to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward headache relief, migraine management, and lasting comfort. (509) 581-4456

Are you struggling with jaw pain, headaches, or clicking when you open your mouth? These could be signs of temporomandibular joint disorder, also known as TMJ disorder. This condition affects millions of people every year and can interfere with eating, speaking, and even sleeping comfortably. At the Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ in Richland, WA, Dr. Jared Bloxham specializes in conservative and advanced TMJ treatment to help patients find long-term relief and improved quality of life. What Is TMJ Disorder? The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull. When the joint or surrounding muscles are not functioning properly, it can lead to painful and frustrating symptoms, including: Jaw pain, stiffness, or tenderness Clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw joint Headaches or migraines caused by muscle tension Earaches, ringing in the ears, or pressure near the jaw Difficulty chewing or fully opening your mouth TMJ disorders can be triggered by stress, teeth grinding (bruxism), arthritis, or injury to the jaw joint. TMJ Treatment Options in Richland, WA At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, Dr. Bloxham takes a personalized, patient-centered approach. Our goal is not only to manage your symptoms but also to address the root cause of your condition. Conservative TMJ Treatments Custom Oral Appliances – Designed to reduce pressure on the jaw joint and protect against teeth grinding. Jaw & Muscle Therapy Exercises – Improve mobility, release muscle tension, and support long-term relief. Lifestyle & Stress Management Strategies – Help patients reduce clenching and other habits that strain the TMJ. Advanced TMJ Therapies in Richland For patients who need additional relief, we also provide advanced therapies that promote healing and reduce pain without invasive surgery: Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) : Reduces inflammation, encourages tissue repair, and relieves discomfort. Trigger Point Injections : Target tense jaw muscles that contribute to pain and headaches. Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) Therapy : Uses natural growth factors from your own blood to support healing of the jaw joint and surrounding tissues. By combining conservative and regenerative options, patients often achieve lasting relief and improved jaw function. Why Choose TMJ Treatment Early? If left untreated, TMJ disorder can worsen over time, leading to chronic pain, worn teeth, and further joint damage. Seeking care early from a TMJ specialist gives you the best chance at preventing complications and restoring comfort. Expert TMJ Specialist in Tri-Cities, WA At the Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, Dr. Jared Bloxham is dedicated to helping patients overcome TMJ disorder with effective, customized treatment plans. Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, our team will guide you toward the right solution for your needs. Don’t let jaw pain control your life. Call Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ in Richland, WA today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jared Bloxham and take the first step toward lasting relief. Serving Richland, Kennewick, Pasco & Eastern WA | 🌐 www.columbiatmjandpain.com | 📞 509-581-4456

Snoring isn’t just a nighttime annoyance—it may be a clue to a deeper sleep issue. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ in Tri-Cities, WA, Dr. Jared Bloxham helps patients understand when snoring signals a potentially serious condition like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). If you’re struggling with snoring and waking up tired, it's time to take it seriously. Why Snoring Could Mean More Than Just Noise Snoring occurs when airflow through your nose or mouth is partly blocked during sleep, making throat tissues vibrate. This common sound, while harmless on its own, can point to obstructive sleep apnea—especially when accompanied by: Breathing pauses, gasping, or choking during sleep Daytime fatigue, poor concentration, morning headaches, or dry mouth Many people who snore don’t realize they may be at risk. That’s why Dr. Bloxham suggests you monitor your sleep to catch warning signs early. Simple Self-Checks to Know When to Act You can begin uncovering whether your snoring is more than just volume: Record Your Snoring: Use a smartphone to capture audio through the night. Listen for loud snoring, choking, or sudden pauses. Track Your Symptoms: Note daytime sleepiness, memory lapses, or irritability—besides being frustrating, these could hint toward sleep apnea. Talk to Your Partner (or a Smart Device): Whether it’s observed pauses in breathing or restless patterns, an outside perspective is invaluable. Risks of Ignoring Loud or Frequent Snoring Snoring linked to sleep apnea isn’t just disruptive—it can increase the risk of serious health problems, including: High blood pressure and heart disease Persistent fatigue, poor focus, and irritability Cognitive decline —studies have even connected sleep apnea and snoring to earlier onset of memory issues and mild cognitive impairment The earlier sleep apnea is addressed, the better your chances for sustained health and well-being. Step-by-Step Guide: What to Do Next 1. Schedule a Consultation Connect with Dr. Jared Bloxham at Columbia Center for sleep apnea and TMJ for a comprehensive sleep evaluation. 2. Consider Diagnostic Testing A sleep study—either at home or in-lab—can assess your breathing, oxygen levels, and sleep stages. 3. Explore Treatment Options Personalized solutions may include: Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT): A custom sleep apnea appliance—sometimes called a dental sleep device or mandibular advancement device (MAD)—repositions the lower jaw slightly forward. This helps keep the airway open throughout the night, reducing snoring and apnea events. Oral appliances are FDA-approved, discreet, and often more comfortable than CPAP. Lifestyle Changes: Side-sleeping, weight loss, avoiding alcohol before bed, and better sleep posture CPAP or Other Therapies: For moderate-to-severe OSA, CPAP remains effective, though many patients prefer oral appliance therapy when CPAP is not tolerated 4. Monitor Progress: With treatment, most patients experience improved energy, better sleep, and reduced health risks. Take the First Step Toward Restful, Healthier Sleep If snoring is affecting your daily life—or that of your partner—don’t wait. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ in Richland, WA, Dr. Jared Bloxham offers expert, compassionate care to help you address the root causes of your snoring and sleep disruption. Schedule your consultation today and learn whether a custom sleep apnea appliance or another therapy is right for you. Serving Richland, Kennewick, Pasco & Eastern WA | 🌐 www.columbiatmjandpain.com | 📞 509-581-4456

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are one of the most common sources of jaw and facial pain. This small but complex joint acts as a sliding hinge, connecting the jawbone to the skull and allowing us to chew, speak, and yawn with ease. When it isn’t working properly, the result can be daily discomfort that impacts eating, sleeping, and overall quality of life. At the Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, Dr. Jared Bloxham provides advanced diagnosis and treatment for TMJ disorders, helping patients find lasting relief from jaw pain and its related symptoms. What Are TMJ Disorders? TMJ disorders (often called “TMD”) refer to a variety of conditions that affect how the jaw joint and surrounding muscles function. Problems in this area can range from mild soreness to significant pain that interferes with daily life. Common signs and symptoms include: Pain or tenderness around the jaw or ears Difficulty chewing, or discomfort while eating Headaches or facial muscle pain Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing the mouth Locking of the jaw, making it hard to open or close Symptoms may affect one or both sides of the jaw, and while some people experience occasional flare-ups, others live with chronic discomfort. TMJ disorders are also more common in women than men. Why Do TMJ Disorders Happen? Pinpointing a single cause of TMJ problems isn’t always easy. Often, multiple factors contribute, such as: Jaw injury or trauma Arthritis (osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis) in the joint Clenching or grinding (bruxism), often linked to stress Disc displacement or damage to the cartilage that cushions the joint Understanding the source of your discomfort is the first step in creating a treatment plan tailored to your needs. How TMJ Disorders Are Diagnosed At the Columbia Center, Dr. Bloxham begins with a detailed medical and dental history, followed by a physical exam to evaluate jaw movement, listen for joint noises, and identify areas of pain. In some cases, imaging such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may be used to assess the joint and surrounding structures. If teeth grinding or bite misalignment is suspected, custom impressions may be taken to design an oral appliance. Treatment Options for TMJ Disorders Treatment is highly personalized, depending on the severity of the condition. Many patients find relief through conservative, non-invasive methods before surgical options are considered. Conservative treatments may include: Anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxants Stress management and relaxation techniques Physical therapy to stretch and strengthen jaw muscles Custom oral splints or nightguards to reduce clenching and protect teeth Advanced treatments may include: Joint injections to reduce pain and inflammation Arthrocentesis (joint flushing) to improve mobility Surgical procedures in severe cases, such as joint repair or replacement Most patients improve with conservative care alone, making invasive treatment unnecessary. Specialized TMJ Care at Columbia Center Dr. Bloxham’s expertise in TMJ and orofacial pain management allows him to provide targeted care that goes beyond basic dental treatments. Most patients benefit from non-invasive treatments that are designed to ease pain, protect the jaw joint, and improve function. Common approaches include: Custom oral appliances (splints or nightguards) to protect teeth and reduce strain on the joint Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): A gentle, non-invasive light therapy that reduces inflammation, improves circulation, and promotes tissue healing in the jaw muscles and joint. Trigger Point Injections: Targeted treatment to relax tight, painful jaw muscles and relieve referred pain to the head and neck. PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) Therapy: A regenerative approach that uses your body’s natural growth factors to support healing and reduce inflammation in the TMJ region. For many patients, these methods are effective at managing symptoms without the need for invasive procedures. Finding Relief with Dr. Jared Bloxham Living with TMJ pain can feel overwhelming, but with the right care, you don’t have to let it control your life. At the Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, Dr. Jared Bloxham offers advanced solutions designed to reduce pain, restore function, and improve quality of life. If you’re struggling with jaw pain, clicking, headaches, or other TMJ-related symptoms, we encourage you to schedule a consultation. Together, we’ll identify the cause of your discomfort and create a personalized plan for lasting relief. Serving Richland, Kennewick, Pasco & Eastern WA | 🌐 www.columbiatmjandpain.com | 📞 509-581-4456

Persistent head and facial pain can disrupt your daily life, affecting work, sleep, and overall well-being. If you live in the Tri-Cities (Richland, Kennewick, or Pasco), finding effective relief is possible. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, Dr. Jared Bloxham specializes in identifying the root causes of head and facial pain and providing tailored treatment plans to restore comfort and improve quality of life. Common Causes of Head and Facial Pain Understanding the source of discomfort is key to effective treatment. Head and facial pain often stems from: Muscle tension : Poor posture or extended desk work can tighten muscles in the neck and shoulders, causing headaches or facial discomfort. TMJ disorders : Dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can create jaw pain, ear aches, and facial headaches. Stress and jaw clenching : Everyday stress can trigger jaw tension, teeth grinding, or tight neck muscles, contributing to chronic pain. Dr. Bloxham carefully evaluates these factors to design a treatment plan that addresses the underlying causes rather than just masking symptoms. Effective Management Strategies Relief often starts with a combination of lifestyle adjustments and professional care: Relaxation techniques : Mindful breathing, meditation, and gentle stretches reduce muscle tension in the jaw and face. Posture improvement : Maintaining proper posture while sitting or working helps prevent strain on neck and shoulder muscles. Hydration : Staying well-hydrated supports overall muscle function and can reduce headache frequency. Professional TMJ Treatments For more persistent pain, Dr. Jared Bloxham provides targeted interventions, including: Custom TMJ oral appliances : Nightguards or splints designed to reduce jaw clenching and ease pressure on the TMJ Trigger point injections : Relieve tension in overworked jaw and facial muscles Low-level laser therapy : Helps decrease inflammation and promote healing in the joint area Jaw exercises and therapy : Restore mobility and reduce discomfort By combining these treatments with lifestyle guidance, patients often experience significant relief from chronic headaches and facial pain. Preventing Future Pain Preventative strategies help reduce the recurrence of TMJ-related headaches: Regular exercise : Promotes circulation and reduces stress Balanced diet : Supports overall health and reduces inflammation Stress management : Incorporating daily relaxation activities helps prevent jaw tension Find Relief in the Tri-Cities, WA If you’re struggling with head and facial pain in Richland, Kennewick, or Pasco, don’t wait to get help. At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, Dr. Jared Bloxham offers comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans to address your pain at its source. 📍 Serving the Tri-Cities, WA and the surrounding area 📞 Call today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bloxham and start your journey to a pain-free life. 509-581-4456

Focused expertise: Led by Dr. Jared Bloxham, an orofacial pain and TMJ specialist with in‑depth training and personal experience managing chronic pain Comprehensive diagnostics: From bite analysis to digital imaging, they take a holistic view of your jaw, airway, and lifestyle Non-surgical treatment-first philosophy: Customized oral appliances, myofascial trigger point injections, and lifestyle changes designed before considering surgery 📍 Serving the Entire Tri-Cities, Washington Area Located at 1363 Columbia Park Trail, Suite 101, in Richland, they welcome patients across: Richland Kennewick Pasco 🔍 What Conditions Are Treated? TMJ pain, jaw stiffness, clicking, locking Myofascial pain in facial and neck muscles Overlapping issues like sleep apnea, bruxism, headaches, tinnitus Interested in jaw tension or sleep apnea? Their treatments include: Mandibular repositioning oral appliances Targeted myofascial injections (e.g., Botox, Xeomin) Coordinated sleep studies and airway-focused therapy 💬 Patient-Centered Care They emphasize: Non-invasive options Personalized treatment plans Friendly, empathetic support from a team that includes Dr. Bloxham himself ⏰ Book a Consultation Today Taking the first step is easy: Call (509) 581-4456 Request an appointment via their website Begin with a comprehensive TMJ & sleep-apnea screening 🌱 Holistic Relief for TMJ & Sleep Health Columbia Center truly understands that jaw pain and sleep issues are often connected. By addressing both, they aim to help you: Sleep more soundly Ease facial tension and jaw discomfort Reduce daily headaches and fatigue Summary  If you're in the Tri-Cities area, their center in Richland offers: Advanced diagnostics Non-surgical, patient-friendly care Expertise in TMJ, myofascial pain, and sleep disorders Care for residents of Richland, Kennewick, and Pasco Take action today—contact Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ and begin your path to relief and better sleep!

Benefits Patients Across the Pacific Northwest

If you're in Richland, Kennewick, Pasco, or nearby, and seeking a mask‑free sleep apnea solution, look no further. Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea specializes exclusively in custom oral sleep appliances—offering a comfortable, effective alternative to CPAP machines. 🦷 Why We're the Top Choice 1. Oral‑Appliance Expertise – No CPAP in Sight Our focus is singular: high-quality, custom-fitted oral appliances to treat sleep apnea and snoring—no masks, hoses, or bulky machines. These devices gently reposition the jaw and tongue to maintain an open airway, making them ideal for mild to moderate cases, or for those who can’t tolerate CPAP. 2. Led by a True Specialist Dr. Jared Bloxham is a Orofacial Pain expert, with over 2,000 post-doctoral hours and ongoing board certification in orofacial pain. His specialized skillset ensures your appliance fits precisely and addresses every aspect of your oral and airway anatomy—resulting in better outcomes. 3. Personal Experience, Compassionate Care Dr. Bloxham has firsthand experience with chronic pain and sleep apnea. This empathy, combined with advanced training, gives patients confidence they’re in capable, understanding hands . As he says: “No one cares how much you know until they know how much you care.” ✅ What to Expect at Columbia Center Thorough Evaluation → A full history review, oral/airway exam, and possibly imaging to design your custom appliance. Custom Fabrication & Fitting → Your appliance is made to your unique anatomy for maximum comfort and effectiveness. Progress Monitoring & Adjustments → Regular follow-ups ensure optimal fit and performance, with guidance on wear time and care. 👍 The Benefits You’ll Love Comfort-first design: Comfortable to wear and easy to travel with Clear airway, better sleep: Reduces snoring, apnea episodes, and daytime fatigue Non-invasive relief: No surgery or mask hassles—just a discreet oral device Insurance coverage: Many plans cover oral appliance therapy—our team helps you navigate benefits 🌎 Serving the Tri‑Cities & Beyond Conveniently located at 1363 Columbia Park Trail, Suite 101, Richland, WA, our practice serves sleep apnea patients across the region: Richland Kennewick Pasco Greater Eastern Washington ✳️ Ready to Sleep Without a Mask? If CPAP isn’t working for you—or you’re simply seeking a comfortable, bite-sized remedy—let us help. Contact us today: 📞 (509) 581-4456 📧 info@columbiatmjandpain.com 🖱️ Request your consultation online via our website In Summary We specialize only in oral sleep appliances—no CPAP, no distractions Dr. Bloxham’s orofacial pain background ensures world-class, precise appliance delivery We serve all of Eastern Washington with compassionate, expert care If you're tired of masks, hoses, and restless nights—this is your solution Let Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea help you reclaim restful sleep—naturally and comfortably.

If you suffer from chronic migraines, daily fatigue, or frequent morning headaches, you might assume stress or poor sleep habits are to blame. But for many people in Tri-Cities Washington, these symptoms could point to a more serious issue—obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ in Richland, WA, we specialize in helping patients who are looking for long-term relief from the hidden symptoms of sleep apnea. If your CPAP isn’t working—or you’re not using it at all—oral appliance therapy could be the breakthrough treatment you’ve been searching for. The Overlooked Link: Sleep Apnea and Headaches Obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where the airway collapses or becomes blocked during sleep, causing repeated pauses in breathing. These pauses can occur hundreds of times per night, leading to oxygen deprivation, sleep fragmentation, and chronic stress on the body. One of the most common—yet often overlooked—symptoms of sleep apnea is frequent morning headaches or migraines. Because sleep apnea disrupts oxygen flow to the brain, it’s not uncommon for patients to wake up with: Throbbing pain behind the eyes or temples Brain fog and difficulty concentrating Irritability or mood changes Persistent fatigue despite 7–9 hours of sleep Oral Appliance Therapy: A Comfortable CPAP Alternative While CPAP therapy is the most well-known treatment for sleep apnea, it’s not always well-tolerated. Many patients struggle with: Discomfort or claustrophobia from the mask Dry mouth or nasal congestion Difficulty traveling with bulky equipment Interrupted sleep due to machine noise That’s why Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ proudly offers oral appliance therapy—a proven, non-invasive treatment option for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. These custom-made devices are: ✅ Comfortable and easy to wear ✅ Quiet and travel-friendly ✅ Designed to keep your airway open by gently positioning the lower jaw forward ✅ A trusted CPAP alternative for patients who can’t tolerate the machine Why Choose Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ? Led by Dr. Bloxham, our experienced team specializes in oral appliance therapy for patients with sleep-disordered breathing, including sleep apnea and severe snoring. We offer: Expert diagnosis and personalized treatment plans FDA-approved custom oral appliances Coordinated care with local sleep physicians for sleep studies A caring, supportive environment right here in Tri-Cities WA Take Control of Your Sleep—and Your Health Ignoring sleep apnea can do more than ruin your night’s rest—it can increase your risk for high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, and yes, chronic migraines. If you’ve been living with morning headaches, daytime exhaustion, or failed CPAP therapy, it’s time to explore a better solution. Oral Appliance Therapy Near Me in Richland, WA At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, we’ve helped countless patients across Richland, Kennewick, Pasco and the surrounding Eastern WA areas reclaim their energy and eliminate their headaches—starting with a simple, non-invasive oral appliance. 📍 Conveniently located in Richland, WA 📞 Call today to schedule a consultation 🌐 Learn more about our CPAP alternatives for sleep apnea