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Treating TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Pain

TMJ (temporomandibular joint) pain can be debilitating. Patients often become aware of a TMJ condition by experiencing severe headaches and the feeling of the jaw getting stuck in place sometimes even dislocating. The pain associated with TMJ can be so intense that concentration at school and work is affected and often takes away the patient’s ability to participate in extracurricular activities.

What causes TMJ pain?

The bones of the temporomandibular joint are separated by a disc of cartilage to keep your jaw moving smoothly. When those muscles become irritated; the disc becomes displaced. Common symptoms include a popping, a clicking sound or sensation, muscle tenderness, joint tenderness, and being unable to open your jaw wide.

There are three main categories of TMJ pain:

· The most common is in the muscles that control the jaw and the connecting neck and shoulder muscles;

· Internal disorder of the joint, or a dislocated or displaced disc; and

· A degenerative joint disease in the jaw joint, like arthritis.

Your risk of developing this pain increases by jaw injury, stress, or grinding and clenching your teeth.

How do I manage TMJ pain?

There are several things you can do to treat or reverse TMJ-related pain:

· Eating softer foods

· Applying ice packs

· Avoiding extreme jaw movements

· Learning techniques to relax and reduce stress

· Practicing gentle stretching of the jaw to help increase its movement

· Soft tissue massage

How can a Chiropractor help with TMJ?

Chiropractors can help in several ways, including manipulation of the joint to help restore movement and by releasing the nearby muscle gaining access through the patient's mouth.

If you are experiencing TMJ issues, contact Core Chiropractic Center today to book a consultation.

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