Treating TMJ With Our Birmingham Chiropractor

The temporomandibular joint is the connection between the skull and jawbone. Every person has two – one on each side of the jaw. In some cases, a person develops a condition known as temporomandibular joint disorder, also known as TMJ. The disorder causes pain in the jaw and where the muscles are that move the jaw. The condition can be permanent, but in some instances, it's only temporary. 

What Are The Symptoms Of TMJ?

Pain occurs in the temporomandibular joints, and often times may even cause pain inside of the ear. There are a few symptoms of TMJ which includes the pain and difficulty during mastication, because pain usually begins at the start of chewing. Secondly, the joints can also lock up, which makes it difficult for a person to open and close his or her mouth. Lastly, the person's jaw might click when his or her mouth opens and closes. As a result of TMJ, people can experience headaches.

What Causes TMJ?

The exact cause of TMJ isn't always known. The disorder can be caused by arthritis, an injury, or genetics. People who have a tendency to grind or clench their teeth sometimes develop the condition, but not every person who has these habits ends up with TMJ.

How Can a Chiropractor Help?

A chiropractor provides an alternative to the invasive procedures like surgery that are typically used to treat patients who have symptoms that are severe enough to interfere with their daily life. One chiropractic treatment given to someone with TMJ is an adjustment. The chiropractor will put pressure on the jaw, skull, and spine in order to relieve pain. The adjustment has the potential to relieve pressure from irritated nerves, and it can increase the jaw's range of motion. An adjustment also has an impact on the headaches that a can person experiences since it helps to relieve the pressure. Another treatment provided to TMJ patients is soft tissue-based therapies such as the active release technique, which breaks up the scar tissue and any adhesions around the ligaments and muscles. 

Contact Us Today To Learn More About How A Chiropractor Can Help with TMJ pain

To learn more about how a chiropractor can aid with TMJ pain, especially by providing headache relief in Birmingham AL, contact Back On Track Chiropractic and Wellness Center at 205-623-5782.