TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders affect the jaw joints, surrounding muscles, and ligaments. TMJ is most commonly caused by trauma, an improper bite, arthritis, or wear and tear. Common symptoms include jaw pain, headaches, earaches, ringing in the ears, and facial pain. Statistics show that one out of every 12 people in the US is currently affected by a TMJ disorder, and TMJ is four times more common in women than men.
How We Treat TMJ Pain in Oxnard, CA
Comprehensive Consultation and Exam
A thorough patient history and several physical and neurological exams allow our chiropractor to determine if the cause of your TMJ is from the jaw muscles or the spine. It is our goal to get you feeling your best.
Specific Chiropractic Care
Since the spine is holding up your head and balancing your jaw, if the spine is not aligned, it can tilt the jaw hinge, wearing it down and causing TMJ. To alleviate TMJ symptoms and fix the problem, you need to treat the root cause, the spinal misalignment.
Massage Therapy
Stress and poor diet exacerbate TMJ pain. Massage therapy is highly effective in treating TMJ directly by helping reduce jaw clicking and pain. In general, massage therapy is a remarkably effective way to reduce TMJ symptoms by decreasing muscle tension and promoting a sense of wellbeing.
Deep Tissue Laser
Laser therapy can ease discomfort, pain, inflammation, and swelling of the jaw and surrounding muscles. Anyone seeking relief from TMJ disorder symptoms makes a suitable candidate for this non-invasive treatment.
Acupuncture
This natural therapy is remarkably effective in treating TMJ as it helps reduce stress, pain, and inflammation and relax the muscles of the face and jaw. Acupuncture is a wonderful way to relieve TMJ pain naturally.
Nutritional Supplements
There are vitamins and supplements to treat specific body parts, including the TMJ. They can help relieve pain, decrease inflammation, decrease spasms, strengthen bones, rebuild cartilage, and improve range of motion in joints.
Common Symptoms of TMJ Pain
Jaw Pain
TMJ jaw pain can last anywhere from two days to a few weeks and is characterized by pain in and around the jaw joint, which can be constant or intermittent.
Jaw Locking
If left untreated, TMJ can become severe and cause painful “locking,” making it difficult to move the jaw. If you are experiencing lockjaw, we highly recommend you seek professional treatment.
Jaw Clenching
People who habitually clench or grind their jaw are more prone to developing TMJ.
Jaw Popping and clicking
In most cases, TMJ jaw popping and clicking may not be a cause for concern. However, if you experience pain following the pop or click, we highly recommend you seek medical attention. The popping and clicking sounds can result from a trauma, dislocation, or displaced disc. Clenching, grinding, or chewing gum can also cause pain and tightness in the facial muscles, especially if you have missing or misaligned teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is going to a chiropractor good for TMJ?
Yes, chiropractic treatment can go a long way to ease the pain and discomfort of TMJ.
What causes TMJ to flare up?
Stress is one of the biggest culprits causing teeth grinding and clenching. Another common trigger is eating hard, crunchy, and chewy foods.
What happens when TMJ is left untreated?
If a TMJ disorder is left untreated, it can cause significant pain, discomfort, and tension. This chronic pain can even lead to the development of diseases like anxiety and depression.
How do you get rid of TMJ fast?
The quickest way to help relieve pain from TMJ is to correct your posture with chiropractic adjustments, reduce stress with massage, use hot and cold compresses, exercise your jaw, and avoid hard, chewy foods.
