TMJ PAIN AND DYSFUNCTION
Is jaw pain affecting your everyday life? Chiropractic is a gentle and natural treatment to ease your discomfort and transform your life for the better.
Understanding TMJ Dysfunction: What is it ?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinge joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. It allows you to move your jaw up and down and side to side, enabling actions such as chewing, talking, and yawning. TMJ dysfunction refers to a condition where the joint becomes painful or inflamed, leading to discomfort and limited movement of the jaw.
What causes TMJ Dysfunction?
TMJ dysfunction can be caused by various factors. Teeth grinding or clenching can exert excessive pressure on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Jaw misalignment or trauma to the jaw joint can also contribute to TMJ issues. Additionally, arthritis affecting the joint and stress leading to muscle tension in the jaw are known factors that can result in TMJ dysfunction. It is important to address these underlying causes to effectively manage and alleviate TMJ-related symptoms.
Stress and poor posture can also contribute to TMJ dysfunction. Stress often leads to clenching of the jaw muscles, which can put strain on the TMJ over time. Poor posture, especially in the neck and shoulders, can affect the alignment of the jaw and exacerbate TMJ issues.
Common symptoms that most people seek treatment for
- Symptoms of TMJ dysfunction can vary from person to person but may include:
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw joint area.
- Difficulty or pain when chewing.
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when moving the jaw.
- Locking of the jaw joint, making it difficult to open or close the mouth fully.
- Headaches or earaches.
- Swelling on the side of the face.
How chiropractic care can help you with your TMJ Dysfunction
Chiropractic care can be beneficial in managing TMJ dysfunction by addressing musculoskeletal imbalances that may be contributing to the condition. Chiropractors use manual adjustments to realign the spine and improve overall posture, which can help alleviate tension in the jaw muscles and reduce pressure on the TMJ. They may also recommend exercises and lifestyle modifications to promote proper jaw alignment and reduce stress on the joint.
Tailored treatments just for you
At The Movement Recipe, there are a variety of techniques to effectively manage your TMJ dysfunction and pain, providing you with much-needed relief. During the initial evaluation, you will receive a comprehensive assessment of your entire spine, as issues with the jaw often come from the neck, upper back, and/or lower back. The treatment approach includes hands-on treatments such as adjustments (spinal and jaw) to enhance joint range of motion and alleviate pain. These treatments are combined with various soft tissue therapies to address muscular tension and exercises to strengthen weakened areas. Lifestyle advice including appropriate postures at work and when lifting heavy things are also an important part of the treatment.
