Clinically informed holistic
massage for the face, neck + jaw
TMJ DYSFUNCTION | FACIAL TENSION | HEADACHES + MIGRAINES
Welcome
I am so glad you’re here!
Through years of experience and training, I’ve seen so many struggle with the symptoms of TMJ dysfunction. I’ve also experienced it myself. The anxiety, sleep issues, jaw clenching, headaches, and migraines. The tension, inflammation, and muscle pain.
It takes a true physical and mental toll. But relief is possible.
Healing is not one-size-fits-all, so no treatment is exactly the same. Each new client gets a thorough clinical assessment, and every session is customized to address your needs.
The results are astounding. The key: Integrating evidence-based, clinical care with therapeutic techniques and a relaxing, nurturing environment that supports your nervous system. And because care doesn’t stop at the end of a session, I educate all my clients about the root cause of symptoms and design homecare programs to empower you to create long term change and lasting relief.
If you’re ready to get out of pain, release tension, and sustain the health of your jaw, head and neck, book a new client assessment and let’s get started. ♡
Hi, I’m Regan
Licensed Massage Therapist • Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant • NASM-Certified Personal Trainer & Corrective Exercise Specialist • Manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapist
Originally opened in 2014 as Opal Massage, Innate Balance has transformed over the years into what you see today: a blend of my time as a PTA and my love for massage. Over the past few years, I’ve fully specialized in massage for the jaw, face, head and neck, especially treatment for TMJ dysfunction and related symptoms.
Looking back, I see all the steps that led me to this specialty to which I feel a true calling. My first exposure was in my 20’s, when I worked as a dental assistant and saw patients coming in with TMJ dysfunction. Later, when I experienced it firsthand in my early 30’s, I was frustrated by the lack of resources for treatment. My dentist just told me to be less stressed — easier said than done. Without proper care, I was forced to live with the discomfort.
Fast forward to my time as a PTA, where I learned more about the causes and treatments from my clinical instructor and the PT at the clinic where I worked, who both specialized in TMJ dysfunction. As my interest grew, I dove deep into learning about all things face massage, TMJ dysfunction, and treating headaches and migraines.
I have now taken well over 1,000 hours of specialized training in treating TMJ dysfunction and continue to supplement my knowledge with mentoring sessions. That’s not to mention collaborating with dentists, PTs, chiropractors, and myofunctional therapists so that I can provide the best care possible.
My approach, combining clinical education and knowledge with my passion as a massage therapist, is completely unique. It allows me to create a treatment and homecare plan customized to each individual’s body, pain, and needs, which creates both immediate and lasting relief.
What is TMJ?
TMJ is an acronym for the temporomandibular joint — two small, intricate joints in front of our ears that work together as a unit and connect our lower jaw to our skull. As synovial joints, like our shoulders and knees, the TM joints work hard every day, helping us eat, speak, swallow, sing, kiss, and communicate through facial expressions.
TMJ Disorders: conditions affecting the TMJ, chewing muscles, and related structures. An estimated 65% of people will experience symptoms during their lifetime; it’s most prevalent from the ages of 20-50, and is more common in women.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
Pain in jaw and surrounding area
Clicking and popping
Clenching, grinding day or night
Fatigue or pain when chewing
Headaches
Neck, shoulder, and upper back pain
Tinnitus, ear pain or fullness
Limited range of motion
General facial tension and fatigue
Massage therapy is highly effective at managing TMJ-related symptoms, as most TMJ disorders stem from an imbalance in the muscles. Tight muscles put stress on the structures of the joint — releasing that tension allows the joint to function properly once more. Massage also reduces pain, increases circulation, decreases swelling, and calms the nervous system.
Treating TMJ symptoms with massage isn’t just about working the physical muscles. Massage’s calming effect enhances the mind-body connection and increases body awareness, so you easily notice when holding tension and then can let it go, reducing symptoms inside and out.
What causes a TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorders have many contributing factors, but some major causes are:
Stress
Clenching and grinding
Overuse
Posture
Neck issues
Trauma
Hypermobility
Other treatments
A collaborative approach is best for TMJ disorders — using different methods of care as appropriate. Most people benefit from a conservative treatment plan, as well.
In addition to massage therapy, other types of care are recommended for long-term change:
Homecare exercises
Physical therapy
Myofunctional therapy
Dental care
Acupuncture
Chiropractic care
Osteopathy
I use a combination of massage techniques on the jaw, face, scalp, and neck to treat TMJ disorder and ease pain and tension. Intraoral massage allows a deeper release of the jaw and facial muscles. Everyone is unique, so your first appointment will include a comprehensive intake to assess your goals and needs. That lets me fully customize your treatment to you.
• Kind Words •
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If you feel aligned with my approach, let’s work together towards finding more relief and ease
6407 Brayton Dr
203C
Anchorage, AK 99507
Accessibility Note
Innate Balance Bodywork is located on the second floor, and unfortunately, the building does not have an elevator. If this is an issue, I am happy to provide a referral for other accommodations.
Hours
Monday - Friday
By appointment only
Phone
(907) 441-7623
Text message is preferred!