TMD is short for temporomandibular joint disorder. It is related to your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) that connects your lower jaw to your skull and allows you to chew, talk, and move your mouth. The pain that comes with TMD can be due to irritation of the joint itself or inflammation of the muscles that control the movements of the jaw and face. If you have TMD you may experience the following:
- Ear pain
- A clicking, grinding, popping, or locking up of the jaw joint
- Abnormal headaches and neck pain
- Problems chewing
- Pain or soreness in the jaw
Caring for TMD
By seeking the care of your family physician for TMD, you may leave his or her office with a recommendation of over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications or more serious prescription medications. Sometimes therapy or splints are used. In more severe cases, surgery may be recommended. This may give some temporary relief. However, if you are looking for long-term care that addresses the root of TMD, keep reading. We may just have the answer you are looking for.
The Relationship of the Jaw and the Spine
As upper cervical chiropractors, we focus on the area of the spine located where the head and neck meet. This area is very close to where the jaw joint is located. It is a complicated area of nerves giving feeling and function to the face and jaw. If one of the bones in this area becomes misaligned, particularly the C1 or C2 vertebra, it can create stress on the jaw area and cause the facial muscles to be under stress. This is why, along with face and jaw pain, those with TMD often have neck pain, too.
Here at Thrive Chiropractic and Wellness Center in Onalaska, Wisconsin, we use a gentle method to realign these bones back into their original position. We are not required to pop or crack the spine to get good results. Rather, our method is more natural and allows the bones to move back into place on their own. This can relieve the pressure on the jaw joint and reduce the pain and inflammation involved.
To schedule a complimentary NUCCA consultation call 608-783-0384