Back pain, headaches, stiff neck, car wrecks, and even work injuries are very common things that make someone thing they should see a chiropractor. These conditions, however, are only the tip of the metaphorical ice berg. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is actually the second most common cause of pain (followed only by low back pain) in the USA. What exactly is this common condition? What can be done about it?

What is TMJ?

TMJ is associated with a number of different disorders where the connecting point between the jaw and the skill becomes painful and potentially swollen. The cause can range between unknown to some kind of trauma.

What does TML feel like?

Symptoms of TMJ can change depending on the person. The most typical and common signs and symptoms are:

• Pain in the jaw
• Difficulty chewing
• Trouble talking
• Headaches
• Neck pain

What can be done about TMJ Dysfunction?

Many times when someone has issues with TMJ, their natural thought process is to see a dental specialist. This makes the most sense. Who understands to mouth and its accompanying joints better? None. Most dentists will take measurements and create a night guard unique to each individual patient. Many times, this helps a great deal. However, did you know that when a dental specialist and a chiropractor work together on TMJ disorders, that the impact is so much more?

How does the chiropractor help TMJ?

At Synergy Chiropractic of Houston, our doctors are trained to evaluate the nervous system associated with the TMJ muscles and cranial nerves. We use very non-invasive therapies to help take care of the issue. The joints associated with the jaw is delicate in normal situations, even more so when in pain. Therefore, we do not ‘crack’ the jaw joint. After therapy, we teach our patients some exercises they can do at home.

These treatments help the dentist out tremendously because the jaw is in a much better placement for the mouth guard. Adjustments to the mouth guard becomes minimal if needed at all.

If your jaw has been bothering you and you are looking for some relief, then give our office a call.