Care for TMJ at Outback Chiropractic Clinic
TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder, or TMD, often starts with noticeable jaw pain. You may hear a clicking sound when opening your mouth, making it difficult to open or close your jaw fully. This stiffness is most commonly experienced while chewing or yawning.
The clicking usually indicates that the disc between your jawbones is worn. While this sound can’t be reversed, chiropractic care can effectively address the pain and stiffness. TMJ issues caused by recent injuries tend to improve more quickly than long-standing conditions.
What Are Some Causes?
How Chiropractic Care Can Help
Chiropractic treatment for TMJ focuses on releasing tension in the four main jaw muscles: temporalis, masseter, digastrics, and pterygoids. By reducing adhesions (tight, stiff areas in the muscles), our natural care helps restore proper function to these muscles. When these muscles work correctly, your jaw can move freely and without pain.
Chiropractic adjustments also aim to increase movement in the joint itself, reducing pain and inflammation as the jaw’s range of motion returns to normal.
Prevention Tips
To help prevent TMJ pain, Dr. Gleeson recommends incorporating some healthy habits into your routine. These include the following:
- Perform regular jaw exercises
- Avoid chewing gum or hard foods
- Practice relaxation exercises to help ease tension
- Try not to clench your jaw
- Consider massage therapy
- Avoid using your teeth to open packages
- Consider wearing a mouth guard to help reduce strain on your jaw, especially if you grind your teeth at night
Take the First Step Toward TMJ Relief
Chiropractic care offers a gentle and effective approach to relieving TMJ pain. If you’re struggling with jaw discomfort, schedule an appointment with Dr. Gleeson and find out how we can help restore comfort and function to your jaw.
