TMJ Disorders and Chiropractic Adjustments
"There is no effect without a cause. Chiropractors adjust causes. Others treat effects." - B.J. Palmer
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) syndrome is a common condition usually associated with clicking or popping in the jaw. This dysfunction can be caused by a multitude of factors which include stress, cervical subluxation, arthritis, or grinding of the teeth.
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Symptoms vary patient to patient, but typically some sort of pain or popping in the jaw is most common. Other symptoms include; trouble chewing, a feeling of misalignment in the jaw muscles, headaches, pressure in the jaw or ear region, tightness in the masseter muscle and swelling on the side of your face.
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First thing a Four Peaks appointment will include will be an assessment. Your Chiropractor will ask for a history and do some exams that will differentially diagnose TMJ disorder from other conditions such as cervical subluxation or strained suboccipital muscles. Once we diagnose the condition we will then attempt to correct it utilizing a variety of adjustments.
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The most common adjustment for TMJ disorder utilizes an Activator. This instrument will utilize a mechanical thrust that will help to re-align the TMJ at the joint complex itself. This is done in conjunction with trigger point therapy usually done on the masseter muscle and the TMJ. Many times patients will also require cervical or occipital adjustments as well, and in some cases we may even need to do cold laser therapy. Home therapy will include exercises to reduce stress along with a recommendation to avoid chewing gum or other chewing that may cause the jaw to tighten.
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If you suffer from TMJ syndrome contact our office today and make an appointment for an assessment. Our Chiropractic Physicians will be eager to help resolve your pain.