How Chiropractic Can Help with TMJ

According to Mayo Clinic, there are over 3 million people diagnosed with TMJ (temporomandibular joint dysfunction) in the U.S per year. This is when the joint that connects your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull (the bones in front of your ear) is compromised so that you have limited movement.

Some signs that you may have dysfunction of your TMJ include:

• radiating pain to and from the face, neck, or shoulders

• limited movement or locking of the jaw

• headaches, migraines, dizziness, or ear pain

• clicking and other noise while opening and closing the mouth

• over or under bite changes

Most doctors say that TMJ is untreatable, however chiropractic can help. TMJ can be caused in a few different ways. 

• Muscular imbalances of the masseter, lateral and/or medial pterygoids, or the temporalis muscles.  

• Subluxation (an incorrect placement of the joint without complete dislocation) and disc derangement. 

Usually subluxation or muscle imbalance is caused by an injury or force to the face or jaw. Chewing gum, grinding teeth, or clenching teeth can also lead to TMJ. 

At Markson Chiropractic, our chiropractors are trained to the bones that make up the cranium, which can have a direct influence on the TMJ. So, there is a way to treat TMJ disorder! Here's how a chiropractic approach to TMJ would work:

One of our chiropractors will examine you and determine the best approach needed to resolve your symptoms. We may work with other specialists if needed, and we will address structural issues through adjustments, physical therapy (if needed), and we will show you the proper stretches to do to relieve pain in your problem area.

If you or someone you know is suffering symptoms that may be connected to TMJ, feel free to give us a call, and if you have any questions about chiropractic let us know in the comments!