Can teeth grinding cause tension headaches and tight neck?

Question

Hi doctor,

I hope you are well. I have been struggling with disequilibrium or off-balance feelings for a few years now. Never fell. I went to an ENT and had an examination that ruled out BPPV and an MRI of my brain and ears to rule out any organic causes. All came back normal. I do suffer from tension headaches in the sub-occipital region, tight neck and jaw muscles. I do grind my teeth in my sleep. Could my suboccipital muscles cause this? What would be my best course of action? This feeling has started to cause anxiety. Please advise.

Thank you in advance.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your concern.

In my opinion, you would have had an upper cervical problem. It could be spondylosis or degeneration of vertebra with dysfunction. Nothing to worry.

All you need to get is properly assessed for the concrete diagnosis. And work with a good physiotherapist for proper mobilization and rehabilitation. Things will settle down. As you have a clearance of all other major structure well being. A couple of rehabilitation exercises will help you live a quality life without discomfort and giddiness. As you told me, tension headache is also an indicator of cervicogenic involvement. So success in your case would be much higher. You can have an assessment of the temporomandibular joint to rule out its secondary involvement. So that one or two extra exercises will help you keep it healthy as well.

I hope this answers your query. Kindly revert to me in case you need any further questions. I wish you a speedy recovery.