TMJ is medical shorthand for the temporomandibular joint - a joint connecting the jawbone to your skull. According to Dr. Brian Bellinger of Bellinger Chiropractic in Arcata, CA, the temporomandibular joint allows for the movement of the jaw, facilitating activities such as talking, chewing, and yawning, but may cause pain and other uncomfortable symptoms for a variety of reasons.
TMJ Disorders
TMJ disorders (known as temporomandibular joint disorders or temporomandibular disorders (TMD)) relate to the jaw joint and the muscles that you use to control your jaw’s movement. In general, they are categorized as follows –
- Disorders of the joints in the jaw.
- Disorders that impact chewing muscles.
- Headaches.
The causes of TMJ disorders include injury, arthritis, stress, and teeth-grinding.
TMJ Symptoms
The symptoms characteristic of a TMJ disorder include –
- Jaw pain and stiffness.
- Difficulty when chewing.
- Shoulder or facial pain.
- Clicking/popping sounds when opening/closing your mouth.
- Headaches/Migraines.
- Ear pain.
- Tinnitus.
- A malocclusion (or a problematic or misaligned bite), which is a misalignment in the way your teeth come together when you close your mouth.
TMJ Treatments
Chiropractors may use manual adjustments to address spinal misalignments, particularly in the neck and upper back, as these misalignments have the potential to contribute to TMJ symptoms.
Chiropractors provide adjustments that seek to restore and optimize function by proper alignment. Treatment options for TMJ disorders vary and may include one or more of the following -
Soft Tissue Manipulation Techniques
Chiropractors have the option to use a variety of soft tissue manipulations to address muscle tension and tightness that exists in the jaw and nearby areas. These complementary therapies may include massage, low-level electric currents (TENS), ultrasound therapy, trigger point therapy, stretching exercises, and more.
Lifestyle, Behavioral and Ergonomic Guidance
Chiropractors may provide in-depth guidance and advice related to various lifestyle factors that can contribute to TMJ symptoms. These may include adjusting one's diet, stress management, and ergonomic layout at work and home. Stress is especially significant as jaw clenching causes muscle tension, which causes TMJ disorders.
In addition, chiropractors may provide guidance on enhancing your posture and recommend exercises to strengthen the jaw's supporting muscles.
It's essential to note that chiropractic treatment for TMJ disorders can vary from client to client. Some individuals may find immediate and lasting relief; however, other patients may require a series of treatments or an ongoing maintenance plan of care.
Contact a Leading Arcata, CA, Chiropractor Today
For more information regarding the TMJ option offered by Dr. Bellinger, contact a member of the Bellinger Chiropractic staff at 707-308-2992 or online.