TMJ Treatment Provided by a West Valley City, UT Chiropractor
Jaw pain can make everyday activities such as chewing, speaking, yawning, and even sleeping uncomfortable. Problems involving the temporomandibular joint, commonly called the TMJ, may also be associated with tension and discomfort around the face, head, and neck. At Back to Balance, serving West Valley City, UT, and the nearby region, we provide chiropractic and supportive care designed to address musculoskeletal factors that may contribute to TMJ discomfort and restricted jaw movement.
About TMJ Disorders
The temporomandibular joints connect the lower jaw to the skull and are located just in front of each ear. These joints work with surrounding muscles and connective tissues to allow the jaw to open, close, and move from side to side.
Problems affecting these joints and surrounding structures are often referred to as temporomandibular disorders, or TMD. Symptoms may include jaw pain, tenderness, stiffness, difficulty opening the mouth fully, or clicking and popping during jaw movement.
Some people may also experience discomfort around the ears, face, temples, neck, or shoulders. Headaches may occur alongside jaw tension in some patients.
Causes of TMJ Pain
TMJ discomfort can have several possible causes. Clenching or grinding the teeth can place additional stress on the jaw muscles and joints. Stress may also contribute to increased muscle tension around the jaw, neck, and shoulders.
Injuries involving the face, jaw, or neck may contribute to symptoms. Poor posture and muscle tension in the cervical spine may also influence the way the jaw and surrounding muscles function.
Arthritis and other problems affecting the temporomandibular joint can contribute to pain as well. Because dental problems can sometimes cause symptoms similar to TMD, evaluation by a dentist or other appropriate healthcare professional may also be necessary.
Chiropractic Care for TMJ Pain
When you visit Back to Balance for TMJ-related discomfort, we begin by discussing your symptoms, when they occur, and whether you experience associated neck pain, headaches, muscle tension, or restricted movement. We may evaluate movement of the jaw as well as the neck and upper spine.
Depending on your symptoms, treatment may include gentle manual techniques intended to address muscle tension and restricted movement around the jaw, neck, and upper back. Soft tissue techniques may also be used to address tight muscles involved in jaw movement.
We may recommend stretches, posture improvements, or exercises intended to support comfortable movement of the jaw and surrounding areas. Identifying habits such as frequent jaw clenching may also be an important part of managing symptoms.
Chiropractic care may be one component of a broader approach to TMJ problems. Depending on the underlying cause, working with a dentist, physician, or other healthcare provider may also be appropriate.
Schedule an appointment with Back to Balance, serving West Valley City, UT and the general vicinity, by calling us today at (801) 966-5106.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common symptoms of a TMJ disorder?
Common symptoms include jaw pain or tenderness, stiffness, difficulty opening or closing the mouth comfortably, and clicking or popping around the jaw joint. Some people may also experience facial discomfort, headaches, or tension around the neck and shoulders.
Can chiropractic care help with TMJ pain?
Chiropractic and supportive care may help address muscle tension, restricted movement, posture, and neck-related factors that can accompany certain TMJ problems. Depending on the cause of your symptoms, care from a dentist or another healthcare provider may also be recommended.