BlueAlfaFitness You’ve just finished a great run, your body feels strong, but then out of nowhere—jaw pain. It’s annoying, distracting, and leaves you wondering, “Why does my jaw hurt after running?” Could it be something serious, or just a simple fix?
You didn’t expect a workout to leave you holding your face in discomfort, right?
Here’s why your jaw might hurt after running: tension, jaw clenching, dehydration, and even poor running form can all trigger that ache.
The good news?
There are ways to tackle this, and I’m about to break down the 7 most common causes—and the quick fixes you need to know.
If you’re tired of dealing with that post-run jaw pain, let’s get to the bottom of it.
Why Your Jaw Hurt After Running: 7 Common Causes
The most common reasons why your jaw hurt after running are muscle tension, jaw clenching, poor running form, dehydration, TMJ issues, sinus pressure, and dental problems.
Each of these factors can contribute to the discomfort you feel during or after a run.
Let’s take a closer look at how each one might be affecting you.
1. Muscle Tension
Muscle tension is a sneaky culprit.
You might not realize it, but when you’re running, especially if you’re pushing yourself, your whole body tenses up—sometimes even your jaw.
Think about the last time you tackled a steep hill or sprinted to the finish line. Did you find yourself clenching your teeth or tightening your neck muscles? That tension can lead to soreness in the muscles around your jaw.
And here’s the thing: this kind of muscle tension isn’t just limited to high-intensity runs. Even if you’re cruising along at a steady pace, stress, anxiety, or just plain old habit can cause your jaw to tighten.
It’s your body’s way of bracing for the effort, but the result? An achy, sore jaw that doesn’t seem to make sense.
2. Clenching Your Jaw
Jaw clenching is another sneaky habit that could be to blame.
You might not notice it while you’re in the zone, but running often triggers people to grit their teeth without realizing it.
When you’re focused on maintaining your pace or pushing through fatigue, your body sometimes responds with clenched muscles, and your jaw is no exception.
Imagine running with your fists clenched the entire time—your hands would feel sore, right? The same thing happens to your jaw.
The constant clenching creates muscle strain, leading to post-run pain.
And because clenching can become almost automatic, it’s easy to overlook this as a cause.
3. Poor Running Form
You might not expect your running form to affect your jaw, but your posture and movement patterns can have a surprising impact.
When your form is off—say, you hunch your shoulders, tense your neck, or crane your head forward—it creates a chain reaction of tension that travels up to your jaw.
For example, if you’re leaning forward too much or your shoulders are too tight, your neck muscles work overtime to keep you upright.
That tension can easily extend to your jaw.
It’s not something most people think about when they’re running, but poor form can lead to unexpected aches and pains, including in places like your jaw that don’t seem directly involved in the run.
4. Dehydration
Dehydration isn’t just about feeling thirsty. It can cause muscle cramps and tension all over your body—including your jaw.
When you’re dehydrated, your muscles don’t function as smoothly as they should, and that includes the muscles around your jaw.
Ever noticed how your legs might cramp up after a long, sweaty run? The same can happen to your jaw muscles, especially if you’re not staying on top of your hydration.
Running depletes your body’s water levels quickly, and if you’re not drinking enough fluids, those muscles start to stiffen up.
So, if you’ve been skimping on the water, that could be the reason for your jaw pain.
And here’s something counterintuitive: even if your legs feel fine, dehydration can still hit smaller muscle groups like your jaw.
5. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Issues
If you have a pre-existing issue with your temporomandibular joint (TMJ), running can make it worse.
TMJ disorders affect the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull, and when that joint gets inflamed or irritated, it can cause pain that flares up during physical activity.
The pounding of your feet against the pavement, combined with any tension or clenching, can aggravate the joint and lead to more discomfort.
People with TMJ disorders often experience symptoms like jaw pain, headaches, or clicking sounds when they move their jaw.
Therefore, If your jaw hurt after running and you’ve had issues with your TMJ in the past, this could be why.
6. Allergies or Sinus Issues
This one might seem out of left field, but it’s more common than you’d think.
Sinus pressure, caused by allergies or sinus congestion, can refer pain to your jaw.
When your sinuses are inflamed, the pressure can push against the nerves that run through your face and jaw, making it feel like your jaw itself is the problem.
Think about a time when you had a bad cold or allergies. Did you feel pressure in your face, around your cheeks, or even in your teeth?
That same pressure can show up during a run, especially if you’re breathing heavily through your nose.
So, if you’ve been dealing with allergies or sinus issues, that could be why your jaw feels sore after a run.
7. Dental Problems
It might not be your first guess, but dental issues can definitely cause jaw pain during physical activity.
Cavities, gum disease, or misaligned teeth can lead to discomfort that gets worse when you’re active.
If there’s already a problem with your teeth or gums, the increased blood flow and tension from running can make that pain more noticeable.
For example, if you have a cavity that’s been bothering you, the constant impact of running might cause vibrations that travel through your jaw, making the pain more pronounced.
Or, if your bite is misaligned, the repetitive motion of running can strain your jaw muscles, leading to post-run soreness.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Jaw Pain After Running
Jaw pain after running can manifest in several ways.
Recognizing these symptoms can help you figure out what’s going on and, more importantly, how to address it.
Common symptoms of jaw pain include:
- Sharp or dull pain: This can vary in intensity. Whether it’s a sudden jab of pain or a lingering ache, it’s a sign something’s not right.
- Discomfort when chewing or speaking: If your jaw hurts when you eat or talk after a run, that’s a clue that the muscles or joints are involved.
- Clicking or popping sounds: A clicking or popping sound when you open or close your mouth could indicate TMJ issues, which can flare up after physical exertion.
Each of these symptoms points to different potential causes, whether it’s muscle tension, TMJ problems, or something else.
The key is to pay attention to when and how the pain shows up:
- Does it start during the run or only afterward?
- Does it feel like a cramp, or is it more of a persistent ache?
These details can help you zero in on the root cause.
How to Relieve Jaw Pain After Running
Now that we’ve covered why your jaw might hurt after running, let’s talk about how to fix it.
The good news? There are plenty of ways to relieve jaw pain and prevent it from happening again.
1. Stretching and Relaxation Techniques
First, focus on stretching and relaxing your jaw muscles.
It might sound strange, but just like you stretch your legs before and after a run, your jaw can benefit from some gentle stretches too.
Try these:
- Jaw Openers: Slowly open your mouth as wide as you can without pain, then close it gently. Repeat a few times to stretch the muscles.
- Neck Stretches: Since tension in your neck can affect your jaw, stretch your neck by gently tilting your head from side to side, holding each stretch for a few seconds.
- Massage: Use your fingers to gently massage the muscles around your jaw and neck, focusing on any areas that feel tight.
These stretches help release built-up tension and can prevent pain from creeping in after your run.
2. Apply Heat or Cold Packs
A simple heat or cold pack can work wonders for sore jaw muscles.
- If your jaw feels tight or inflamed after a run, try placing a warm towel or heating pad on the area for 10-15 minutes.
- For more immediate relief, use a cold pack wrapped in a cloth to reduce swelling and numb the pain.
Alternate between the two if needed, but always remember to wrap any ice or heat source in a cloth to protect your skin.
3. Practice Deep Breathing
Stress and tension often build up in the jaw when you’re running, especially if you’re pushing yourself hard.
Practicing deep breathing exercises can help calm your mind and relax those tight jaw muscles:
- Inhale slowly through your nose for a count of four.
- Hold for a few seconds.
- Exhale through your mouth, focusing on keeping your jaw relaxed throughout the exercise.
4. Stay Hydrated
As mentioned earlier, dehydration can lead to muscle cramps and tension, including in your jaw.
Make sure you’re drinking enough water before, during, and after your run to keep your muscles loose and flexible.
Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water per day—or more if you’ve had an intense workout.
5. Chew Soft Foods
After a run, your jaw might be sensitive, so give it a break by avoiding hard or chewy foods like nuts or gum.
Instead, stick to softer options like:
- Yogurt
- Smoothies
- Steamed veggies
This can reduce strain on your jaw muscles while they recover.
6. Use a Mouth Guard at Night
If you find yourself clenching your jaw during sleep, using a mouth guard can help. This is especially useful if you’ve developed a habit of grinding your teeth (bruxism), which can make jaw pain worse after a run.
A simple over-the-counter mouth guard can protect your jaw from unnecessary stress overnight.
7. Practice Proper Posture
To relieve post-run jaw pain, maintaining proper posture during everyday activities is key.
Keeping your head up and your shoulders relaxed while sitting or standing helps keep the jaw in a neutral position, minimizing unnecessary muscle tension.
When you avoid slouching or hunching, it allows the muscles around your neck and jaw to remain relaxed, reducing the strain that can contribute to jaw pain.
This simple adjustment in posture can make a significant difference, helping to ease any discomfort in your jaw after a run.
8. Do Some Light Jaw Strengthening Exercises
Strengthening your jaw muscles can make them more resilient over time.
Try this simple exercise:
- Place your tongue against the roof of your mouth, just behind your front teeth.
- Gently open your mouth, keeping your tongue steady
This helps build strength without straining your jaw and can reduce pain after a run.
9. Take Over-the-Counter Painkillers
If your jaw pain is particularly uncomfortable, over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce inflammation and manage the pain.
Make sure to follow the recommended dosage on the packaging and consult a doctor if you’re unsure about using them.
Painkillers can be a good temporary solution, but it’s always best to focus on long-term strategies like stretching and hydration for lasting relief.
How to Prevent Jaw Pain During and After Running
To prevent jaw pain during and after running, you should consider practices like warming up properly, focusing on your breathing, and keeping good posture.
These simple steps can help avoid post-run discomfort.
Let’s break it down.
1. Pre-run Warm-up Exercises
Just like you’d warm up your legs and arms before a run, it’s important to warm up your neck and jaw, too.
Try a few gentle stretches and exercises to get those muscles ready:
- Neck Rolls: Slowly roll your head in a circle, first in one direction, then the other. This helps loosen up your neck muscles, which can reduce tension in your jaw.
- Shoulder Shrugs: Lift your shoulders up toward your ears, then relax them down. This helps release tension in your upper body, which can affect your jaw during a run.
2. Focus on Proper Breathing Techniques
How you breathe during a run can directly impact the tension in your jaw. Breathing deeply through your nose can help keep your jaw relaxed, reducing the risk of clenching.
Try this:
- Inhale deeply through your nose for a count of three, then exhale through your mouth for a count of three.
- This not only helps you maintain a steady rhythm but also keeps your jaw from tensing up as you run.
Remember, the more relaxed your breathing, the less likely you are to tense up your jaw muscles.
3. Mind Your Running Posture
Good posture while running isn’t just for your back and shoulders; it can help prevent jaw pain, too.
When you run with your head forward or shoulders slouched, it can create tension in your neck and jaw muscles.
Try this:
- Keep your head up and your shoulders back, with your ears aligned over your shoulders.
- Imagine a string gently pulling you up from the top of your head.
- This posture helps your muscles stay aligned and reduces unnecessary strain on your jaw.
4. Avoid Chewing Gum While Running
Chewing gum might seem like a good distraction while you run, but it can actually cause you to overuse your jaw muscles. This can lead to soreness and tightness after your run.
Instead, try focusing on relaxing your jaw as you run, keeping your lips lightly closed but your teeth apart.
5. Hydrate Properly
By ensuring that you’re well-hydrated before your run, you give your muscles the fluid they need to stay loose, reducing the chance of tension building up in your jaw.
During your run, continue to sip water regularly to keep hydration levels steady.
This is especially important on hot days or if you’re running for longer distances, as you lose more fluids through sweat.
Aim to drink a few sips of water every 15-20 minutes during your run to maintain muscle flexibility, which can help prevent jaw tightness and discomfort.
6. Use a Supportive Mouthguard (If Needed)
If you find yourself clenching your jaw during high-intensity runs, a lightweight, over-the-counter mouthguard can help. It’s especially useful if you tend to grind your teeth or if you experience TMJ issues.
Wearing a mouthguard during your run can cushion your jaw and prevent tension buildup, making it less likely that you’ll experience pain afterward.
7. Practice Jaw Awareness
Sometimes, the key to preventing jaw pain is simply being aware of when you’re tensing up.
Throughout your run, do a quick body scan—notice if your shoulders, neck, or jaw feel tight.
If you catch yourself clenching your teeth, try relaxing your jaw by opening your mouth slightly for a few seconds. This small habit can go a long way in keeping your jaw relaxed and pain-free.
8. Use Heat or Ice Pre-Run
If you know you’re prone to jaw pain, applying a warm towel or heating pad to your jaw for 10 minutes before your run can help loosen up the muscles.
Alternatively, if you’ve experienced swelling or inflammation in the past, applying an ice pack for a few minutes can help numb any discomfort before you start your run.
When Should You See a Doctor if Your Jaw Hurt After Running?
You should be concerned about jaw pain when it’s persistent or interferes with daily activities. While most jaw discomfort after running is harmless, these signs could indicate a more serious issue.
Let’s look at the key symptoms that might require professional attention.
1. Persistent or severe pain
If the pain doesn’t go away after trying stretches, relaxation techniques, or improving your running form, it could indicate a deeper issue.
2. Symptoms that interfere with daily activities
If chewing, talking, or yawning becomes painful, or if you experience jaw pain outside of your runs, it’s worth getting checked out.
3. Jaw locking or difficulty opening
If your jaw locks or you have trouble opening or closing it fully, it could be a sign of a TMJ disorder that needs professional treatment.
4. Other health concerns
In rare cases, jaw pain could be a sign of a more serious health issue, such as heart problems, particularly if it’s accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, or discomfort in your arm.
If you spot these symptoms, get medical help right away.
Don’t ignore jaw pain if it’s impacting your everyday life. A doctor or a dentist can help you get to the root of the problem and find relief.
Why Does My Jaw Hurt After Running? Common Questions Answered
Now, let’s answer some commonly asked questions relating to why your jaw hurt after running. Understanding these concerns can help you find relief and continue enjoying your running routine.
1. How do I stop my jaw from hurting when I run?
You can stop your jaw from hurting when you run by relaxing your jaw and maintaining proper breathing. Focus on unclenching your teeth and keeping your mouth slightly open.
2. Why does my jaw hurt after exercise?
Your jaw may hurt after exercise due to muscle tension or clenching during physical exertion. It could also be related to stress or improper breathing patterns.
3. Why do my ears and jaw hurt after running?
Your ears and jaw may hurt after running due to tension in the jaw muscles, which can radiate to the ears. Cold weather or dehydration may also contribute to this discomfort.
4. Why do my teeth and jaw hurt when I run?
Your teeth and jaw may hurt when you’re running due to clenching or grinding during the activity. Stress and improper breathing patterns can also contribute to this pain.
5. Why does my jaw feel tired after running?
Your jaw feels tired after running because of muscle strain or clenching during intense exercise. This fatigue can also be a result of stress on the jaw muscles.
6. How do you relax your jaw during exercise?
To relax your jaw during exercise, focus on deep breathing and keeping your mouth slightly open. Avoid clenching your teeth, and periodically massage your jaw muscles.
7. Should I be worried if my jaw hurts on one side?
Yes, you should be concerned if your jaw hurts on one side and the pain persists. It could be due to an issue like TMJ disorder or a dental problem, so consulting a healthcare professional is advisable.
8. How can I fix my jaw pain?
You can fix your jaw pain by applying warm compresses, massaging the area, and practicing relaxation techniques. If the pain continues, seek advice from a healthcare provider.
9. How long does a pulled jaw muscle take to heal?
A pulled jaw muscle typically takes 1 to 2 weeks to heal. Rest and gentle stretching can help speed up the recovery process.
10. Can cold weather make jaw pain worse during a run?
Yes, cold weather can make jaw pain worse during a run. The cold can cause muscles to tense up, including those in the jaw, leading to increased discomfort.
11. How to know if jaw pain is heart related?
Jaw pain that is heart-related often occurs with chest pain, shortness of breath, or radiates to the arm. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
12. Does drinking water help jaw pain?
Yes, drinking water can help alleviate jaw pain by preventing dehydration, which can cause muscle tension. Staying hydrated supports muscle relaxation, including those in the jaw.
13. Does jaw pain mean stress?
Yes, jaw pain can mean stress, as stress often leads to clenching or grinding of the teeth. This tension can cause discomfort in the jaw muscles.
14. Why does my jaw hurt on one side?
Your jaw may hurt on one side due to uneven muscle strain, a dental issue, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Consulting a dentist or doctor can help diagnose the cause.
15. What is jaw pain an indicator of?
Jaw pain can be an indicator of muscle tension, dental issues, TMJ disorders, or even heart-related problems. It’s important to consider the context and other symptoms when evaluating jaw pain.
Getting Answers to “Why Does My Jaw Hurt After Running?”
If you’ve been battling that annoying jaw pain after a run, you’re probably feeling confused, maybe even frustrated. After all, it’s the last thing you expect after a good workout.
It’s easy to wonder, Why me? Why now? But here’s the thing—you’re not alone, and now, you’re armed with the answers.
You’ve learned that jaw pain isn’t just random—it can come from tension, clenching, or even dehydration.
But the best part? You’ve also got the tools to fix it.
You’ve got stretches, hydration tips, and insights that can help you run without that nagging ache.
So, the next time you hit the pavement, you’ll do it with confidence, knowing that you’re one step ahead.
Remember, this is your journey, and every run is a win.
Keep moving forward—you’ve got this!
