People who suffer from jaw pain from Temporomandibular Joint Disorder or commonly referred to as TMJ (also known as TMD) may think to see a dentist or oral surgeon to relieve their pain. However, a chiropractor can truly provide lasting pain relief for this condition so sufferers do not suffer in chronic pain.
TMJ Causes
TMJ can have many different causes, including:
- Dislocated jaw
- Displaced disc in the jaw
- Degenerative joint disease, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
- Jaw injury
- Pain in the neck, shoulders, or jaw muscles
- Underlying stress
- Tooth or jaw grinding or clenching
One or more of these causes may contribute to jaw problems. Until the underlying cause is identified and addressed, people who suffer from TMJ will continue to experience chronic jaw pain.
How Chiropractors Can Help
Signs that someone has TMJ include limited range of motion in the jaw, altered motion of the jaw, pain in the jaw, clicking noises when the jaw opens or closes, headaches, or earaches and hearing problems. A chiropractor in Colorado Springs can perform diagnostic tests to confirm whether the individual suffers from TMJ. If the chiropractor finds that TMJ is present, then he or she can begin a series of treatments designed to alleviate the underlying cause.
Heat and ice can soothe tight muscles and decrease any local inflammation and relieve pain associated with TMJ. A chiropractor can also perform gentle jaw massage that will loosen up tight tissue and help the muscles in the jaw relax. This can also alleviate pain and help increase the range of motion.
Chiropractors will perform gentle adjustments using their hands or special tools to realign displaced joints and discs within the neck, spine, and jaw. As these come into proper alignment, the jaw will be able to return to its regular range of motion. Patients often report that they no longer feel pain and irritation in the jaw, can open their jaw more than in the past, and feel better.
Chiropractors can also recommend additional treatment, demonstrate stretching and strengthening exercises that will reduce the likelihood of TMJ recurring, and make other recommendations to improve patient health and wellness.
Treatment for TMJ can restore a patient’s daily quality of life and help alleviate chronic pain associated with inflammation, degenerative joint disease, and misalignment of the jaw. Full treatment for TMJ will usually take several sessions with a chiropractor; however many patient report feeling some relief from their symptoms even after just one treatment!
