Can a Chiropractor Treat My TMJ?

All over the world, more people are realizing that chiropractic treatment can alleviate a number of painful conditions. In fact, 77% of those who went to visit a chiropractor between 2017 and 2018 described the care they received as "very effective." But while you might assume that a professional chiropractor mainly works to provide relief for back pain, there are a number of other conditions that can be improved by this type of treatment.

Take TMJ, for instance. This condition affects between 5% and 12% of the population, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. But despite its prevalence, you may know very little about it -- or that the quest to find the right chiropractor may end up providing the pain relief so many people seek. Let's delve into this disorder and learn a bit more about chiropractic treatment for TMJ as well as how a specialist can help.

What is TMJ?

First, let's discuss what TMD -- more colloquially known as TMJ -- is. TMJ actually refers to the temporomandibular joint, which serves as the connection between the jaw and the skull. TMD, or temporomandibular joint disorder, is the medical term used when a patient's TMJ becomes swollen, inflamed, and painful.

When a person develops TMD, they usually experience pain or discomfort in this joint and in the surrounding facial muscles. An individual may have headaches, neck aches, dizziness, difficulty chewing or opening and closing the mouth, and even back pain (all in addition to the pain they feel around the joint itself). Some people with TMD may also experience clicking or popping of the jaw, teeth grinding, ear pain, and dental sensitivity.

Interestingly, there isn't just one cause of TMD -- and in some cases, the root cause may be a bit of a mystery. For some, poor alignment or conditions like arthritis may come into play. Jaw injuries and high levels of stress can also lead to the development of TMD. It may even be a combination of causes. Data shows that women are far more likely to develop TMD than men are, which can add yet another wrinkle to the way this condition is regarded. As a result, there isn't a definitive, one-size-fits-all treatment for TMD. Dental specialists may recommend certain treatments that may or may not work for their patients. And because the symptoms of TMD may come and go or may not always be severe, some people live with this condition without receiving professional care.

Can Chiropractic Care Help With TMJ?

In many cases, chiropractic treatment for TMJ can provide significant relief for those who are suffering. By manipulating the spine and the neck, chiropractors can reduce pressure on the nerves and alignment issues. This, in turn, can provide relief for symptoms associated with TMJ dysfunction. Studies have also found that chiropractic care can result in TMD symptom improvement for subjects.

Keep in mind that, as is the case for many conditions treated by these professionals, ongoing chiropractic care is the best way to provide long-term relief. If you find the right chiropractor and you feel the treatment they provide has helped your TMD, you should continue to see them on a regular basis to reduce the risk of flare-ups. A combination of chiropractic treatment and at-home remedies can provide symptomatic relief and even prevent these issues long-term.

Ready to find the right chiropractic treatment for TMJ? We're here to offer some much-deserved relief. For more information, please contact us today.