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MYOFACIAL TECHNIQUES TMJ TRACKING AND RELEASE TECHNIQUE, PART II Since the temporalis and masseter are some of the larger and more superficial structures crossing the TMJ, we address these first when working with jaw misalignment. Green areas in Image 7 are active in jaw elevation (closing). While your client continues opening and closing the jaw, use your fingertips to feel into the temporalis and its fascia (Image 8). Keep watching for straight jaw tracking as in Image 5; feel for the various parts of the temporalis contracting at different phases of opening and closing. Use gentle pressure to release any asymmetrical contractions. Image courtesy of Primal Pictures. Used with permission. A GOOD START TMJ pain can have many contributing factors, of course. A head-forward posture, stress, and even back and pelvic issues have been shown to be related to TMJ pain. However, your clients will often report changes from just this simple tracking technique. If you still see side-to-side deviation after temporalis and masseter work, or if your client has persistent TMJ pain, your next step will be to work elsewhere in the body, and with other, deeper structures crossing the TMJ. Our next articles will show some ideas for doing this. Advanced-Trainings.com, Inc., which offers continuing education DVDs and seminars throughout the United States and abroad. He is a Certified Advanced Rolfer and a Rolf Institute faculty member. Contact him at info@advanced-trainings.com. Til Luchau is a lead instructor at visit massageandbodywork.com to access your digital magazine 115