Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder that causes TMJ pain is a condition that affects the joint connecting the jawbone and the skull. It can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw, face, neck, and even ears.
TMJ can also lead to headaches, difficulty chewing, and clicking or popping sounds when opening and closing the mouth. While traditional treatments like pain medication, hot and cold therapy, and surgery are available, many people with TMJ are turning to chiropractic care for relief.
Here’s how chiropractic can benefit people who suffer from TMJ.
How Chiropractic Works
Chiropractic care is a non-invasive approach focusing on improving the function of the musculoskeletal system. It involves manual adjustments, mobilization, and other soft tissue techniques to restore proper joint and muscle movement.
Chiropractic treatments that improve how our body functions helps reduce pain and improve certain injuries or health conditions.
Chiropractic Care for TMJ
Chiropractic care can help alleviate TMJ pain by addressing the disorder’s underlying cause. In many cases, TMJ is caused by jaw or neck dysfunctions that can put pressure on the surrounding muscles, ligaments and nerves.
Chiropractors can prescribe exercises, perform adjustments and mobilizations to help improve the jaw or neck function, resulting in a reduction of tension and reducing pain.
Chiropractors that offer soft tissue therapy can utilize these techniques to relieve TMJ symptoms. Soft tissue therapy, such as massage, active release, graston therapy or trigger point therapy, can help relax the muscles in the jaw and neck. Stretching and other therapeutic exercises can also help improve flexibility and reduce pain.
In addition to manual therapies, chiropractors can provide advice on lifestyle changes to help manage TMJ symptoms. This might include dietary changes, stress management techniques, and ergonomic improvements to reduce strain on the jaw and neck.
Benefits of Chiropractic Care for TMJ
One of the main benefits of chiropractic care for TMJ is that it is non-invasive and drug-free. This means that people with TMJ can avoid the side effects and risks of medications and surgery. Chiropractic care aims to address the underlying cause of TMJ rather than just treating the symptoms.
Chiropractic care can also be customized to each individual’s needs. Chiropractors can develop a personalized treatment plan based on the severity of the TMJ disorder, the individual’s overall health, and their lifestyle. This approach can help improve the effectiveness of treatment and reduce the risk of complications.
Another benefit of chiropractic care for TMJ is that it can be used with other treatments. People with TMJ may find that combining chiropractic care, physical therapy, massage therapy, acupuncture and other treatments provides the most effective relief.
What to Expect from Chiropractic Care for TMJ
If you’re considering chiropractic care for TMJ, knowing what to expect from your treatment is important. Your first visit to a chiropractor will typically involve a thorough evaluation to assess the extent of your TMJ disorder and identify any underlying causes.
During your treatment, your chiropractor will use gentle, targeted adjustments to realign the jaw or neck and relieve tension. You may also receive soft tissue therapy, stretching exercises, and other therapies to reduce pain and improve flexibility.
Chiropractic care for TMJ is typically a gradual process. You may need several treatments over weeks or months to achieve the desired results. Your chiropractor will work with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your needs and goals.
Conclusion
TMJ can be painful and frustrating, but chiropractic care can relieve it without drugs or surgery. By addressing the underlying causes of TMJ and providing targeted manual therapies, chiropractors can help reduce pain and improve flexibility.
If you’re considering chiropractic care for TMJ, talk to your healthcare provider about whether it’s right for you. With the right treatment plan, you can find relief from TMJ and enjoy a better quality of life.
Get TMJ pain treatment from the best chiropractor in Calgary. NW Chiropractic and Massage is a top-rated clinic in Calgary, AB, offering an array of techniques to get you feeling your best.
Do you have pain in your jaw? Dr. Thibert, TMJ chiropractor in Calgary, will assess and diagnose your jaw dysfunction to let you know what TMJ treatment is right for you. If you’re living in pain, let us help you today.
