Whenever I see a bunch of people coming in with the same condition, I feel like it is a sign that I should write about it. Lately, I have been seeing a lot of patients suffering from TMJ syndrome, also known as TMD (Temporomandibular Disorder). Many people think TMJ problems only cause jaw pain, but they can also contribute to headaches, neck tension, ear pain, shoulder tightness, popping and clicking of the jaw, ear pain, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and even vertigo.
What is the TMJ? The temporomandibular joint is made up primarily of the mandible (lower jaw), the temporal bone of the skull, and a cartilage disc that cushions the joint. There are two temporomandibular joints on each side of the skull that work in tandem with each other. The TMJ is one of the most active joints in the body, used constantly for talking, chewing, swallowing, and yawning. Clenching is the most common reason I have found that people develop TMJ Syndrome. Trauma is also a culprit. Blunt force trauma like a hit to the jaw is obvious but even a car accident and whiplash forces can sprain the jaw. Poor posture can change the movement of the jaw and contribute to dysfunction in the TMJ’s, as well.
Chiropractic care focuses on improving motion and reducing tension in the jaw, neck, and surrounding muscles. The most common finding is one side not opening as much or slower than the other side. Popping or clicking usually means that the disc is not functioning well or is damaged. I typically use my hands to get the TMJ to adjust but using the activator can also be effective. Adjusting the neck and working on the surrounding muscle tissue makes a big difference. I also adjust the cranial bones, especially the temporal bones, which can create problems with the receiving end of the joint. Finally, working on posture and focusing on strategies to stop clenching are vital for long term success.
Not all chiropractors work on the TMJ so we pride ourselves on helping others with jaw issues. As with all dysfunction, sometimes it resolves quickly and sometimes it can take months. If you or someone you love is dealing with an achy jaw, stop by and ask about it. It can be a bit of a shocking manual adjustment, less so with the activator, but the results can be remarkable.
