The temporomandibular joints are the two joints that connect your jawbone and your skull. Therefore, every time you move your jaw, these are the joints you're working. Certain habits like teeth grinding really wreak havoc on this joint as well as certain other factors.
By recognizing the signs of problems with this joint, you can seek out the care you need to stop the pain and other unpleasant symptoms. Additionally, it helps to understand your treatment options, such as chiropractic adjustments, and how they are not just for back pain.
Signs of TMJ Problems
You can develop an issue known as temporomandibular joint disorder, sometimes referred to as TMJ or TMD. Although the exact cause isn't always known, certain factors play a role like arthritis, teeth grinding or clenching, genetics, or a jaw injury.
TMJ can cause you pain in one or both of your joints. Sometimes, you'll experience pain or an aching sensation that extends to your ears. The pain can interfere with your ability to chew and open your mouth fully. Headaches and neck pain are also possible. Some people experience tinnitus, which is ringing in the ears. A common sign that you have TMJ is you hear a grating or clicking when you open your mouth.
If you only hear a clicking sound when you open your mouth, your TMJ is most likely mild and does not require treatment. However, when you have pain and the TMJ symptoms interfere with your ability to chew, you should seek out treatment.
Treating TMJ with Chiropractic Adjustments
With chiropractic care at Hughlett Chiropractic, specifically a chiropractic adjustment, you undergo a process that can get to the root of the problem and can help with your pain and other symptoms. It also does not require you to take any medication to manage the pain. This is beneficial since prescription medications can cause unwanted side effects.
During a chiropractic appointment for TMJ, Dr. Hughlett will determine the specific location where your jaw needs to be repositioned to correct the problem. With a TMJ alignment, your practitioner repositions your jaw manually, yet gently. This takes the pressure off the soft tissue surrounding your joint to help ease your pain.
More than likely, Dr. Hughlett will also guide you through exercises as well that work the jaw in a manner that can ease your pain and discomfort.
Contact our office today at (817) 451-7575 to stop the unpleasant symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder. We're available to provide treatments that target the root of the problem and do so naturally!