TMJ, or temporo-mandibular joint disorder, is a condition that can cause jaw pain and improper tracking of the jaw.
TMJ Disorder – or temporo-mandibular joint disorder
TMJ disorder, or temporo-mandibular joint disorder, is a condition that can cause jaw pain and improper tracking of the jaw, which can lead to clicking or locking of the jaw while eating or opening the mouth. The exact cause of TMJ disorder can be difficult to pinpoint and may require a chiropractic doctor’s expertise to diagnose. A person’s jaw pain may be due to various factors, including genetics, arthritis, or jaw injury.
Interestingly, some people who experience jaw pain tend to clench or grind their teeth, although others who habitually do so may never develop TMJ disorder. Nonetheless, the discomfort associated with TMJ disorder is usually temporary and can be relieved with nonsurgical treatments, such as specialized chiropractic care and rehabilitative exercises.
If you’re experiencing jaw pain, chiropractic treatment for TMJ may not be the first solution that comes to mind. However, at Chirotopia Chiropractic, we specialize in finding the root cause of your symptoms and can help alleviate your pain. Our team of experts can work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that may include chiropractic adjustments, exercises, and other therapies to relieve your TMJ pain and improve your jaw function.
You may call us at (479) 367-2758 to book an appointment and experience the benefits of our holistic approach to health and wellness.
Symptoms and Possible Causes of TMJ
- Jaw Pain: caused by injury, stress, or degenerative joint disease
- Jaw Stiffness: often due to the inflammation of the joint
- Clicking or Popping Sounds when opening or closing the mouth: caused by a displaced disk or damaged joint cartilage
- Locking of the Jaw: the jaw may become locked in an open or closed position due to a misaligned joint or a displaced disk
- Ear pain or Pressure: caused by the proximity of the jaw joint to the ear
- Headaches: often caused by muscle tension or spasms in the jaw and neck
- Neck Pain: the muscles in the neck may become tight or strained due to the joint dysfunction
- Difficulty Chewing or Biting: caused by a misaligned or damaged joint that affects the bite
- Tooth Sensitivity: the pressure of a misaligned bite can cause tooth sensitivity
- Dizziness: caused by the proximity of the jaw joint to the ear and the effect it can have on balance and equilibrium.