Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ) at YourBack Chiropractic
Chiropractic care deals with more than just back issues. We care for the entire skeletal system and its relation to the muscles and nerves in your body. Joints are a key focus of chiropractic care, regardless of the location.
When jaw dysfunction occurs, it can manifest as tooth pain, sore necks and shoulders and more. Because of its proximity to the ears and mouth, referred pain is prevalent.
This difficulty in pinpointing the cause of the pain is one of the main reasons diagnosis is so difficult. Most people have gone to other medical and dental professionals for help before deciding to try chiropractic care.
What is TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint is what connects the skull to the jawbone. There are two joints, one on each side of the head. When the joint is out of alignment or function is compromised, pain and inflammation may occur. It can also greatly affect the sensory input to the brain. This may result in tooth pain and compromise the positioning of other cranial bones.
While TMJ refers to the joints found on either side of your jaw, it is most commonly used to discuss disorders of the joint. In many cases, the cause of the issue is not readily seen. Poor posture, hereditary issues, stress, arthritis, teeth grinding or an injury to the jaw are some possible causes. Whatever the source, we’re here to help you heal and get the relief you need and deserve.
Some of the signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders are:
- Popping or clicking sound from the TMJ site
- Limited motion of the jaw
- Pain in the neck or face
- Tooth pain
- Earaches
- Difficulty in chewing
- Stiff neck or shoulders
- Lockjaw
Symptoms may exhibit on one side of the face or both, and sometimes may switch sides as well. If the problem continues, chiropractic care may be necessary to obtain relief.
What to Expect
When you come into our office, after obtaining a detailed health history, we will perform a variety of tests. These include range of motion, changes in the direction of motion of this joint (7 distinct motions), the ability to open the mouth, and pain patterns.
Additional treatments such as massage and special exercises may be recommended as part of your care plan. Microcurrent Point Stimulation therapy has also shown positive results with TMJ.
Patients need to receive care for 3-12 visits initially. Their condition will be re-examined at each subsequent appointment. In some instances, initial care is all that is needed to obtain relief. If an ongoing condition is diagnosed, continuing care is necessary to maintain proper health of the joint.
Additional treatments such as massage and special exercises may be recommended as part of your care plan. Microcurrent Point Stimulation therapy has also shown positive results with TMJ.
Questions? We’ve Got Answers
TMJ is not as black and white an issue as most. We know you may have doubts if chiropractic is the best choice for your care. Give us a call and let’s chat about your concerns. We want you to understand all your options and be confident in choosing YourBack Chiropractic.
Contact us today to speak with our knowledgeable staff. You’ll be glad you did.
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