TMJ or temporomandibular joint disorders denote problems with jaw, its joints and the surrounding facial muscles. There are two TMJs on either side of the human jaw and these are made up of a complex web of blood vessels, nerves, bones and muscles. These joints are essential for functions like chewing, swallowing and general jaw movements. Pain is this area hampers these functions and be deeply irritating and uncomfortable for day to day living. Treatment for TMJ
is focused at reversing this pain and restoring normalcy in your everyday life.
A hinge joint that connects the mandible or the lower jaw with the temporal bone of the skull,TMJ disorders can lead to different kinds of facial pain, ear aches, head and neck pain. Moreover, they lead to problems like clicking jaw and popping sounds, problems in yawning, biting and licked jaws which are difficult to open or close. Advanced chiropractic TMJ Treatment leads to probing and examining this pain and tenderness and then treating them with non-invasive and holistic care. At times, direct intervention is also involved.
TMJ Disorder: Symptoms
- Pain or tenderness of the jaw as well as the neck and shoulders
- Severe ear ache, fullness and ringing sensation in the ear and even hearing problems in more serious cases
- Difficulty or discomfort in chewing along with toothaches
- Aching facial pain, swelling and fatigue of the face which grows worse in cold weather
- Locking of the joint which makes the jaws stuck and difficult to open or close the mouth along with clicking, crunching, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw
- Inability to open the mouth too wide and an uncomfortable bite
- Severe headaches, neck and shoulder pain
- Dizziness and imbalance
It is important to know what causes TMJ disorders so that you can get the best diagnosis and treatment. In many cases the exact cause of TMJ disorder is difficult to identify but in general doctors have come up with certain possible causes like –
- Existing conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis damage the cartilage between joints and may lead to TMJ disorders
- Injuries like whiplash, heavy blow or impact and other similar accidents to the temporomandibular joint, jaw or head and neck muscles can lead to TMD.
- Frequent clenching and grinding of the teethwhich lead to muscle fatigue in the area and puts undue pressure on the TMJ
- Dislocation or erosion of the disc or the soft cushion between the ball and socket
- Emotional stress, poor diet and insomniawhich leads to tightening of facial and jaw muscles or clenching the teeth
- A bad bite or orthodontic braces which do not fit well
- Poor posture which leads to straining of the muscles of the face and neck.
- In some cases, post natal structural problems lead to TMD.
Getting holistic TMJ Treatment in Panama City, Fl.
Advanced treatment for TMJ involves a thorough examination through series of tests to determine the underlying cause of TMD in a patient. It is important to note here that every patient receives individual care and guidance through their painful conditions and no two cases are treated in the same manner. This customized treatment and attention makes the recovery chances 100 times faster.
Once the causes are determined, doctors apply a blend of chiropractic treatment, functional neurology along with supporting nutrition to ensure an overall healing effect.
Written by: +Tony Salamay