Treatment for TMJ Dysfunction at Naturally Chiropractic
The temporomandibular joint or TMJ is a complex joint that connects the jawbone (mandible) to the skull (temporal bone). The joint is responsible for facilitating the movement of the jaw, allowing us to perform essential functions such as chewing our food, speaking and yawning. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction is a collective term for a broad range of disorders that affects the jaw joints, ligaments and surrounding muscles. These disorders often cause significant discomfort and pain. TMJ dysfunction can be caused by a variety of factors such as stress, clenching, grinding the teeth (bruxism), jaw injury, whiplash, malocclusion, and misalignment of the jaw.
Common symptoms associated with TMJ dysfunction include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Limited range of motion or locking of the jaw
- Clicking, popping or grinding sounds when opening or closing the mouth
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Ear pain, fullness or ringing (tinnitus)
While these symptoms can be alarming, it’s important to note that TMJ dysfunction is a treatable condition. Many people turn to chiropractic care as a non-surgical and drug-free approach. At Naturally Chiropractic, Dr. Gavin McCutcheon has over a decade of experience helping patients achieve pain relief and lasting results.
Common TMJ Disorders that we treat include:
- TMJ Myofascial Pain
- TMJ Subluxation
- Acute lock jaw
- Disc Displacements
- Tendinitis
- Synovitis/capsulitis
- Osteoarthritis
- Tension headaches
How Chiropractic Care Can Help
A proper diagnosis is the first step in our approach. At your initial visit Dr. McCutcheon will perform a detailed history and examination to determine the root cause of your condition. Once the problem has been identified a comprehensive treatment plan will be developed and tailored to your specific needs. Common treatments for TMJ dysfunction may include:
- Chiropractic adjustments – Gentle instrument assisted or hands-on manual techniques to correct misalignments in both the spine and jaw.
- Soft tissue therapy – Trigger point and myofascial release to help reduce tension in the muscles surrounding the TMJ.
- Physiotherapy – Low-level laser therapy, therapeutic ultrasound and TENS are often utilized to reduce joint inflammation and pain.
- Rehabilitation – Jaw specific and postural exercises are prescribed to help stabilize the condition.
- Referral for an intra-oral appliance
Our Approach
Our approach is conservative and non-invasive. Benefits of treatment include improved function of your jaw and relief from the pain and other symptoms associated with your condition. Dr. McCutcheon works closely with many dentists in the Jacksonville area and will work collaboratively with your oral care provider to ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment possible.
Get Started Today
TMJ dysfunction is something that we treat on a regular basis. If you are suffering from a temporomandibular joint condition, please contact our Jacksonville office today for lasting relief!
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