What is TMJD or Temporomandibular joint dysfunction?
Symptoms and Risk Factors of TMJ Disorders
The most common symptoms of TMJD include pain or tenderness in the jaw joint area, as well as pain and tightness in the neck and shoulders. The pain can impact only one or both jaw joints. There may also be an aching pain in and around the ear, pain while chewing, and difficulty chewing. A person’s jaw may lock, which makes opening and closing the mouth difficult. Another common symptom of TMJD is a clicking sound or grating sensation when opening the mouth or chewing.
Factors contributing to the risk of developing TMJD include genetics, a jaw injury, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, long-term grinding or clenching of the teeth, and a disease of the connective tissues around the jaw joint.
Treatment for TMJ Disorders
Chiropractic care is helpful for alleviating some of the pain and additional symptoms associated with TMJD. Upon your first visit, a chiropractor will evaluate your symptoms and examine your jaw and neck. X-rays may be ordered to further investigate contributing factors.
Many chiropractors who treat TMJD focus on the cervical (neck) spine and the contribution of cervical dysfunction to TMJD. Chiropractic treatment for TMJD may involve adjustments to the neck or muscle work (generally targeting the pterygoid, a chewing muscle). Other treatment methods may include soft tissue massage, special exercises, and intraoral myofascial release. In addition, we may suggest lifestyle changes to help improve your condition.
Why Seek Chiropractic Treatment for TMJD?
Chiropractors can help diagnose TMJD and recommend treatments based upon your unique condition—and if needed, we can refer you out to another health care practitioner. If you are experiencing symptoms of a TMJ disorder, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Not only can we diagnose TMJD and treat many of your symptoms, but we can also help manage your treatment and recovery journey in a holistic, non-invasive way.
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