How A Chiropractor Addresses TMJ Pain
What Is TMJ Pain?
The temporomandibular joint (referred to as the TMJ) is the joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull and that is responsible for the jaw’s ability to open and close. This joint is what lets you talk, chew, and move your bottom jaw in general. When a person experiences jaw pain, it is often related to the TMJ, as this is the joint that undergoes the most stress and movement. TMJ pain can be from the joint itself, from nerve pain in this area, or from the muscles near this joint. If the pain is consistent, this condition is called TMD, or temporomandibular disorder, although many people will refer to the disorder as TMJ syndrome. Along with pain, TMD or TMJ syndrome can cause clicking or popping noises in the jaw. Because TMJ pain is caused by joints, muscles, or nerves, it is a musculoskeletal issue, which is what chiropractors are trained to work with and correct.
Working With The Jaw Muscles
Chiropractors are trained to work with the muscles, joints, and all aspects of the musculoskeletal system. The jaw, like any other part of the body, has several muscles and joints that are used to create movement. A chiropractor can assess these muscles and can offer relief, potentially through adjustments and other chiropractic techniques. Facial massage or Active Release Techniques ART® may be used to help facilitate jaw movement depending on the cause of your TMJ pain.
Other Chiropractic Adjustments For TMJ Pain
Your TMJ pain may not be caused solely by the temporomandibular joint. Issues in the jaw and surrounding muscles can be caused by problems in the neck, shoulders, and upper spine. Muscle tension in areas other than the jaw can lead to TMJ pain, and a pinched nerve in the back can affect any area of the body, including the jaw. A spinal realignment can help to relieve pain caused by a pinched nerve. A chiropractic adjustment performed by a registered chiropractor or a massage by a registered massage therapist (RMT) can help to relieve tension in the neck, upper spine, and shoulders, which can help the jaw muscles relax and relieve TMJ pain.
If You Experience TMJ Pain, Contact A Calgary Chiropractor
TMJ pain can be addressed and reduced with the help of an experienced chiropractor. At Shephard Health in Calgary, our staff works to address all forms of musculoskeletal issues with a variety of chiropractic services. If you are suffering from TMJ pain, if you struggle to open your mouth due to jaw stiffness, or if you hear cracking or popping when you open your mouth, schedule an appointment with Shephard Health by calling 1-403-543-7499. Our skilled staff will work with you to determine the root of the problem and find the chiropractic technique that relieves your TMJ pain.
FAQ
Q: What makes TMJ pain worse?
A: If you have TMJ pain, you should avoid eating hard or sticky foods, as it will take more chewing force that can strain the muscles and joints. You should be careful to maintain good posture to help the muscles in your neck, shoulders, and upper back.
Q: How can Active Release Techniques help with my TMJ pain?
A: ART® can help to increase range of motion and can help to relieve pain in ligaments. To learn more about this chiropractic technique, read The Benefits Of ART® (Active Release Technique).
Q: What other conditions can a chiropractor help to resolve?
A: Chiropractors do more than help with back pain; they can help relieve issues throughout the body. Because the spine contains the central nervous system, the back can affect many aspects of health. But chiropractors are also trained to work with all forms of musculoskeletal issues and can therefore address many aspects of the body and related conditions.
