The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are located on each side of the jaw, just in front of and below the ear.
Symptoms of TMJ dysfunction may include jaw pain, face pain, and/or headaches. You may have difficulty opening and closing your mouth.
You may also hear a ‘clicking’ in the jaw when movement occurs. Jaw locking, in which there is a complete inability to open or close the mouth, is known to happen as well.
TMJ dysfunction can be caused by several factors.
There may be problems with the joint itself; such as the case of sudden trauma, sustained trauma associated with lengthy dental procedures, and arthritis. These types of problems can cause the disc in the joint to slip out of place, which blocks the opening and closing of the jaw.
Bite misalignments (malocclusion) due to dental problems such as crowding or irregularly shaped teeth abnormally stress the jaw which can lead to dysfunction as well.
Many studies have shown that a relationship exists between faulty posture and TMJ dysfunction, especially that of the upper neck.
Poor posture creates muscle imbalances which may cause the muscles of mastication (chewing) to spasm causing abnormal or asymmetrical forces within the joint.
Treatment for TMJ dysfunction depends on the cause.
For dental problems, treatment options may be required in the form of orthodontics, bite plates, or surgery.
In other cases, TMJ can be treated conservatively.
In the initial phase of management, the focus is pain control. Modalities such as heat, ice, massage, electrical stimulation, or ultrasound can help provide relief. Simple relaxation techniques are often utilized as well.
Stretching and self-mobilization techniques are often issued to improve range of motion. Therapeutic exercises to restore and maintain correct posture may also benefit patients with TMJ dysfunction.
Self-medicating with painkillers and over-the-counter anti-inflammatories is ill-advised. It is best to get yourself checked out by a professional. If left untreated, TMJ can lead to serious problems including but not limited to premature degeneration of the joint, shifting of the bite, and even hearing problems.
If you would like more information, feel free to call (304-840-2820) or stop by the office. No appointments are necessary, and consultations are free. You can also email me at DocLeviChiropractic@yahoo.com.
Yours in Health,
Dr. Levi G. Merritt, D.C., CPT, CHC
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