Clinically informed holistic
massage for the face, head + neck

TMJ DYSFUNCTION | HEADACHES | NECK PAIN | ANXIETY + STRESS | FACIAL TENSION

Welcome

I am so glad you’re here!

In our busy, fast-paced lives, it is easy to stay in a near constant state of “fight or flight”, which can lead to anxiety, sleep issues, jaw clenching, inflammation, muscle tension and pain.

With years of experience and training, I have found people heal best when in a calm, relaxed state. Slow, intentional techniques guide you into this state of deep relaxation, easing your mental, emotional, and physical tension.

This approach is especially effective for TMJ dysfunction, facial tension, headaches, and neck pain.

Supporting the nervous system and activating the body’s state of calm is key to recovery. That’s why I am passionate about offering a nurturing, nonjudgmental space where you can receive bodywork that supports you during your current season of life.

smiling blonde haired woman in black t-shirt in front of brown fence

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.

My education as a PTA and orthopedic massage therapist has given me a deeper understanding of how the body works and heals. I draw from that knowledge and experience with every client to adjust and customize the massage, while focusing on regulating your nervous system, easing mental and physical tension, and addressing your goals. I am passionate about offering treatment for TMJ dysfunction, headaches, and neck pain, as well as providing face massage for deep relaxation and tissue nourishment.

Committed to lifelong learning and nurturing my own mental and physical well-being, I strive to offer the highest level of care of my clients. I believe in the inherent well-being and resilience within everyone and am honored to assist you on your journey to returning to that place of balance ♡

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

woman lying on back receiving jaw massage

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 •

  • Jeanine on Google

    “I've been seeing Regan for several months now for headaches and neck pain related to my TMJ. If you suffer from jaw pain just book the appointment! My headaches are gone. My jaw and neck haven't felt this relaxed in forever.”

  • Alex

    “Regan is always warm, welcoming, and open. The biggest thing that sets her apart is that she truly cares about making you feel better. She will listen to everything you say, and communicates exactly the best way she can help you.”

  • Gabby on Google

    “[Regan] is incredibly knowledgeable on the muscles and specific techniques to help relax the muscles and it’s been a massive game changer in my journey in helping find relief with my TMJ.”

  • Rachel on Google

    “Each session is the perfect balance between doing the work & calming the nervous system. She manages to unlock tricky to describe places in the face, head, and neck, resulting in a balance that is noticeable and lasting.”

  • Jae on Google

    “Regan's intuitive touch and deep understanding of the body's energy points work wonders. Each stroke is deliberate, releasing tension and promoting relaxation. The massage is more than just physical; it's an emotional and spiritual journey.”

  • Ann

    “I’ve been getting massages from Regan for years, and I don’t go to anyone else! She is professional, caring, and skilled. I feel comfortable letting her know what I need.”

  • Peggy

    “She is always attentive to my requests and listens carefully as I describe my concerns and then addresses them with just the right amount of pressure in the problem areas.”

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COMMON SYMPTOMS ✨ Every day, clients present with one or more of these symptoms, often related to TMJ disorders. These are the most common symptoms I treat, but there can be several other ones! By incorporating massage therapy alongside a home care
A FEW WAYS TO REDUCE JAW PAIN ♡ Receiving regular face, head + neck massage is often super effective for jaw pain, but home care and adjusting your daily habits are key for long term change! As always, please reach out with any questions ♥️
So grateful to be a part of your healing journey ✨ #innatebalance #tmj #buccalmassage #facialmassage #anchoragemassage #neckmassage #intraoralmassage

If you feel aligned with my approach, let’s work together to help you rediscover your innate well-being

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!