Which condition is characterized by pain around the ear, restricted opening of the jaw, and decreased pain at rest?

The condition characterized by pain around the ear, restricted opening of the jaw, and decreased pain at rest is TMJ synovitis/capsulitis. In this condition, there is inflammation of the synovial membrane and surrounding capsular structures of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This inflammation leads to pain that is typically more pronounced during movement of the jaw—such as opening the mouth—but can lessen when at rest, as the jaw is not under strain or stress.

The observed restricted jaw opening is a hallmark symptom and reflects both the pain and inflammation present in the joint. Patients often experience this pain as localized around the ear region, given the anatomy and proximity of the TMJ to the ear structures.

Considering other conditions, jaw osteoarthritis often involves more chronic pain that can persist with rest, and it typically features crepitus or grinding sensations during jaw movement rather than the specific acute symptoms of restricted opening seen in synovitis/capsulitis. Temporomandibular hypermobility might result in excessive movement and dislocation risks but would not typically present with significant pain at rest or restricted opening as the primary symptoms. Lastly, disc displacement without reduction usually leads to clicking or popping noises and limited range of motion with