TMJ Pain = Temporomandibular Joint Pain
Jaw locked when you wake up? Frequent clicking? Headaches due to jaw pain? We can help! Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder or more commonly referred to as TMJ dysfunction is frequently seen in a chiropractic clinic. TMJ dysfunction is the diagnosis given to problems with jaw discomfort and movement. The Temporomadibular joint functions to connect the lower jaw to the skull and is made up of numerous muscles, bones and others tissues. It is the irritation of these structures that when dysfunctional can cause pain. Majority of TMJ injuries are commonly caused by grinding and clenching of the teeth while you are sleeping. Additionally, headaches, neck tension and even stress can have negative effects on the jaw.1
There are a number of treatments for TMJ injuries and chiropractic care has been observed clinically to help reduce discomfort, improve opening, reduce locking and deal with any possibly associated neck and/or headache related symptoms. At Hycroft Chiropractic & Massage Dr. Daniel Birch utilizes Active Release Technique® in association with chiropractic therapies to assist patient with TMJ patient’s discomfort. The discomfort in your jaw can in many cases be the result of tight and tender musculature surrounding the TMJ. It is the focused Active Release Technique® treatment of these structures that has clinically been observed to improve patients TMJ symptoms. Additionally, the structures of the neck play a pivotal role in movement of the TMJ. Therefore, careful assessment and treatment can result in improved results. Research has shown that with the inclusion of spinal manipulation and soft tissue treatment patients vastly improved TMJ and headaches symptoms in certain populations.2
If you have any further questions and/or interested in coming to the clinic for treatment please feel free to contact Dr. Daniel Birch at 604-733-7744.
1) Canadian Dental Association [www.cda-adc.ca]. TMD (Temporomadibular Joint Disorder. Ottawa: Canadian Dental Association; 2016 [cited 2016 March 8]. Available from: http://www.cda-adc.ca/en/oral_health/talk/complications/temporomandibular_disorder/
2) Yuill E, Howitt S. Temporomadibular joint: conservative care of TMJ dysfunction in a competitive swimmer. J Can Chiropr Assoc. 2009 August; 53(3): 165–172.
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