Jaw pain and difficulty moving the jaw may be signs of TMD, or temporomandibular disorder, which affects the joints and muscles that help the jaw move. This can happen when the jaw joints or chewing muscles are strained, injured, or not moving smoothly. Many people with TMD feel pain in the jaw, face, or neck, hear clicking or popping sounds when opening and closing the mouth. There may also be stiffness or locking of the jaw, headaches, or pain around the ears. Some people may notice that the way their upper and lower teeth fit together changes, or that movement is limited. When the jaw and surrounding muscles are not working well, daily activities like talking and chewing may become uncomfortable. A chiropractor can help by checking the alignment and movement of the spine and jaw area, and providing gentle chiropractic care that supports better joint motion and muscle balance. If TMD symptoms are making daily life harder, it is suggested that you schedule an evaluation with a chiropractor to see if chiropractic care may help improve comfort.
TMJ: Temporomandibular Join Disorders
Temporomandibular Joint, or TMJ disorders, affect the hinge connecting the jaw to the skull, leading to pain and difficulty with jaw movement. Common causes include teeth grinding, jaw clenching, injury, or arthritis. Symptoms often include jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds when opening the mouth, headaches, and difficulty chewing. If left untreated, TMJ disorders can significantly impact daily activities, including eating and speaking.
Managing TMJ disorders typically involves lifestyle adjustments, such as stress reduction to minimize clenching and grinding, along with gentle jaw exercises to improve mobility. In some cases, wearing a night guard may help protect the joint from further strain.
Chiropractic care offers a unique approach to TMJ relief by focusing on the alignment of the jaw and neck. Chiropractors use gentle adjustments to reduce tension in the surrounding muscles and improve joint function. Techniques like myofascial release may be applied to alleviate tightness in the face and jaw area. By addressing related spinal or muscular imbalances, chiropractic care helps reduce pain and promote overall jaw health.
1. Can TMJ problems cause dizziness or vertigo?
Yes, TMJ dysfunction can affect the inner ear through muscle tension or nerve involvement, leading to balance issues or dizziness. Chiropractic adjustments to the neck and jaw can address alignment issues that contribute to dizziness.
2. Can chewing on one side worsen TMJ disorders?
Yes, consistently chewing on one side can overwork one side of the jaw, leading to imbalances and further TMJ issues. A chiropractor can restore balance to the jaw and surrounding muscles, reducing the impact of uneven chewing.
For additional information, please contact our office located in Orinda, CA .
