Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a common condition that affects the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. The TMJ acts as a sliding hinge, connecting the jawbone to the skull and allowing for essential movements like chewing, speaking, and yawning. This joint is unique because it combines both hinge and sliding motions, making it more complex and susceptible to dysfunction. When the TMJ misaligns anterior and inferior, it can cause pain, discomfort, and restricted movement, which affects the structure of the face, impacts eating and communication, and may restrict the airway and proper breathing.
TMJ issues are often linked to muscle tension, poor posture, or joint misalignment—factors that chiropractic care is specifically designed to address. By improving spinal alignment and reducing muscle tension, chiropractic adjustments can play a valuable role in managing TMJ symptoms.
Common Symptoms of TMJ
• Jaw pain or tenderness
• Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
• Difficulty chewing or pain while eating
• Locking of the jaw joint
• Headaches, earaches, or facial pain
Causes of TMJ
• Jaw misalignment or teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Stress that causes muscle tension in the jaw
• Injury or trauma to the jaw joint
• Arthritis affecting the joint
Identifying the cause of your TMJ symptoms is essential for effective treatment.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help
Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive approach that may help manage TMJ symptoms by improving joint alignment and reducing muscle tension. The Gonstead chiropractor first starts with spinal adjustments to get the neurology on board, which may relieve pressure on the jaw and promote better alignment. Then we use targeted techniques to adjust the outside of the jaw joint itself, reducing inflammation and restoring proper movement (1).
Research has shown that chiropractic adjustments can improve TMJ function by restoring balance in the jaw and surrounding muscles. By addressing muscle tension and promoting symmetry in the head, neck, and jaw, chiropractors can help reduce pain and improve mobility. This approach considers the interconnected relationship between these areas, aiming to improve overall function and comfort (2).
Take Control of Your Jaw Health
If you're struggling with TMJ pain, chiropractic care may provide a safe and effective solution. By improving spinal and jaw alignment, chiropractors can help reduce discomfort, restore proper function, and improve your overall quality of life.
References:
(1) Pavia, S., Fischer, R., & Roy, R. (2015). Chiropractic Treatment of Temporomandibular Dysfunction: A Retrospective Case Series. Journal of chiropractic medicine, 14(4), 279–284. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcm.2015.08.005
(2) Chu, E. C., Lee, W. T., Chau, C., Wong, E., & Cheng, H. Y. (2023). Temporomandibular Disorder Treated With Chiropractic Therapy. Cureus, 15(3), e36377. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.36377