Can chiropractic help TMJ?

It’s easy to associate back pain and neck pain with chiropractic treatment, but many people who suffer from TMJ, or Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, have found relief with the help of chiropractic care. The causes of TMJ syndrome are not completely understood and multiple factors have been found to contribute to the muscle tightness and dysfunction that typically characterize this condition.

In my experience as a chiropractor working with patients who suffer with Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, the common symptoms include pain in the jaw, cheek, teeth or front of the ear with chewing or yawning; clicking noises; inability to open the mouth wide; improper bite and deviation of the jaw when opening the mouth. In addition, some patients experience headaches or hearing disturbances such as ringing in the ears, dizziness and earaches.

A few of the many causes of this condition include poorly positioned teeth, dislocation of the jaw, jaw trauma and chronic inflammatory arthritis. It has been reported that there is an increased risk of TMJ dysfunction associated with those who have had orthodontic braces or excessively chew gum.

During the evaluation it is important to determine if any lifestyle habits are contributing to the condition. Poor posture in the neck and upper back can lead to neck strain and create abnormal jaw function. Over time the stress of postural imbalance may increase muscular tension and jaw clenching. If you are grinding or clenching your teeth during the day or at night, then it is important to consult with your dental professional about a night guard or other recommendations.

The primary goal of treatment is to determine the cause of your problem, so every angle is explored before a thorough plan is created. Once it is confirmed to be TMJ, a specific treatment plan will be discussed based on the severity of the condition. There is no specific test for TMJ and sometimes it may be necessary to refer out to an Oral/Maxillofacial or an Ear, Nose and Throat specialist. In many cases, a treatment plan for TMJ will consist of gentle chiropractic adjustments using a mechanical adjusting instrument, manual therapy to address soft tissue irritation and the use of heat or ice to lessen pain.

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Dr. Wayne M. Fichter Jr. is a chiropractor at Natural Spine Solutions. The business is located at 3913 Schreiber Way in Coeur d’Alene, 208-966-4425.