So, eight years ago I woke up with sudden neck, jaw, and posture problems that led to tinnitus. Things have improved slightly since then, but only because I started at such a low point. Right now, my biggest hurdle is moderate tinnitus that has been acting up lately, though I’m hoping it’s just a fluke. I’ve seen some progress using a TMJ splint, home PT, and monthly massages. Chiropractors haven’t been helpful lately because my neck rarely cracks or adjusts anymore. I feel like I’ve hit a plateau. About two years ago, a massage left me feeling normal for four days—my tinnitus was quiet and my neck had full range of motion—but the tension and ringing returned on the fifth day. I’ve had about 50 massages since then with various therapists, and I’m certain my issues are entirely muscular. My annual blood work is always fine. I suspect my tight muscles have misaligned my C1/C2 vertebrae. My neck muscles feel like overstretched rubber bands that have lost their elasticity. My question is: would magnesium help with deep muscle tension in the neck, traps, and jaw, or am I wasting my time? I tried Magnesium Malate, but it upset my stomach. Any other suggestions would be appreciated.
I’ve had a very similar experience and found that massages and static stretching were totally ineffective. It turns out I have central sensitization—often linked to migraines and tinnitus—which results in abnormal muscle tone. You might want to see if that resonates with your situation. What actually helped me were dynamic stretching routines and targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles causing issues in my neck and shoulders. Note: I take magnesium, but it didn’t help my muscle tension.
VIDEOS
For those who asked, here are the dynamic stretching videos I do most days. I use these to warm up before my other exercises. I never push into a deep stretch that causes pain; I just gradually increase the range as I repeat the movements.
Full body (Russian audio, but easy to follow) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJYZd6IabFs
Neck, shoulders, and upper back (English audio available) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gxgJPDQQMU
There are plenty of other options on YouTube. I also work with an Exercise Physiologist who designs my program.
Also, this paper discusses how nervous system dysregulation is thought to cause musculoskeletal pain. It’s a long, technical read, so I used AI to summarize it.
Instead of a pillow, I roll up three or four sweatshirts or hoodies and stack them to sleep on. Towels work as well. It contours to my neck and shoulders much better, and because it’s firm, it encourages slight movement during the night so you don’t get stuck in a position that locks your muscles up.
Stop seeing chiropractors.
I just started self-myofascial release. My main issues are low back pain and herniated discs, but I started because research suggests it helps with overlapping systems like muscles, fascia, and the nervous and circulatory systems. All you need is a foam roller and a set of therapy balls. It offers benefits similar to massage, but you become the expert on your own body. It’s definitely worth looking into. Tune Up Fitness on YouTube has some good instructional clips.
Dry needling was a total lifesaver for my neck. I used to have constant, debilitating pain that would trigger migraines. I tried everything, and dry needling was the only thing that actually worked. It’s pretty uncomfortable while it’s happening, but I feel like a new person the next day. I also started using EarProMax for the ringing, which has been a nice addition.
This sounds like it could be related to sleep-disordered breathing. You should get checked for sleep apnea or airway issues. I’m dealing with this now, and PT plus addressing hormonal shifts helped. Nighttime clenching is a huge factor too. Hope you find some relief!
I had a very similar experience, and it’s quite possible your muscle tension is due to low ferritin. Three months of iron supplements along with daily PT exercises saved me.
Have you ever consulted a genuine TMJ specialist? I did, and the treatment involved quarterly Botox injections in my masseter muscles, neck, and the top of my head. It significantly lowered—and sometimes even stopped—my neck and jaw tension along with the tinnitus. You can get the treatments every three months; after six months, I didn’t even need my night guard. Regarding your question, I use a magnesium spray for muscle tension in the evenings. It seems to help with the tightness and my sleep quality. I also use a specialized pillow that keeps my head and neck properly supported. Best of luck!
I’ve been through something similar, though I use magnesium glycinate. I highly recommend trying meditation, spending time in nature, or other stress-release practices. Stress can manifest physically in your muscles, and like you, I suddenly became extremely tight everywhere. Learning proper diaphragmatic breathing is worth it for the daily exercises alone. You might also have a postural issue, like a hip impingement, which creates imbalances that get worse when stress builds up.