Jaw Locked Open: Woman's Life Unhinged by Neurological Disorder

Faith Belen, a 25-year-old from Austin, Texas, has been battling a rare neurological disorder that caused her jaw to lock in a wide-open position starting in June 2025. This condition, diagnosed in July 2025 as oromandibular dystonia and cervical dystonia, made eating, drinking, and even speaking incredibly challenging, leading to a 30-pound weight loss and jaw arthritis.

Initially, Belen struggled to close her jaw, which would painfully pop back open. The condition severely impacted her self-esteem, causing her to avoid public appearances and wear masks. She learned to control her speech by holding her jaw, and even explored American Sign Language. Her journey involved trying various treatments, with muscle relaxants, acupuncture, and Botox offering the most relief.

Belen recently shared her experience on TikTok, where her videos have gone viral, garnering millions of views and an outpouring of support. While no longer in pain, she must still physically manage her jaw's movement. She finds empowerment in documenting her progress and connecting with others, transforming her feelings of isolation into a sense of strength and self-acceptance.