How Chiropractic Helps Those That Suffer from Temporomandibular Joint Disorder
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, or TMJ, is a common condition that affects the jaw. It can be extremely painful and many people are turning to methods other than medication or surgery to relieve that pain. While lifestyle changes such as diet may help, chiropractic care can be very helpful for treatment for TMJ pain.
What is TMJ?
The joint that connects your jaw to your skull and allows you to open and close your mouth is the temporomandibular joint. When you have problems with the muscles or joint in that area it is called TMJ, or more accurately temporomandibular disorders, or TMD. This disorder is characterized by pain and stiffness on one or both sides of the jaw. The jaw may also lock or get stuck in either a closed or open position. Patients may also notice a popping, clicking, or grating sound in the jaw when chewing, yawning, or when closing or opening their mouth. They may also have trouble chewing and even experience swelling. Doctors don’t know what causes TMJ. It can be linked to trauma to the neck, such as with whiplash, but it also can be caused by: Arthritis in the jaw Grinding the teeth Stress that causes clenching of the jaw Movement of the disc, or soft cushion, that lies between the socket and ball of the jaw
Diagnosis and Treatment for TMJ.
Many conditions can mimic the symptoms of TMD. After taking a thorough history, your doctor will check the joints in the jaw for popping, clicking, or grating sounds. They will also assess the patient’s pain or tenderness level and check for any stiffness. During the exam, the doctor will assess the jaw and its ability to function properly. X-rays may also be a part of the examination.
Chiropractic Care for TMJ.
Chiropractic for TMJ is a common, safe and effective treatment for many TMJ issues. The chiropractor may perform neck or spine adjustments as well as adjustments to the jaw.
There are also soft tissue treatments that the chiropractor may perform during the course of treatment for TMJ. The chiropractor will often recommend lifestyle and diet changes to patients as well as home exercises. Home remedies can include: cold packs or heat packs to the area, recommend supplements, and exercises designed to lessen the pain and encourage healing. Chiropractic is a safe, effective, and non-invasive treatment for TMJ.
So if you or a loved one have been diagnosed with TMD and/or are experiencing TMJ pain, give us a call. Our Doctor of Chiropractic is here to help!
