TMJ dysfunction is a common problem that involves a number of different jaw symptoms. While many abbreviate jaw symptoms as TMJ, this is actually the abbreviation for the jaw joint itself (temporomandibular joint), and conditions affecting the jaw are better abbreviated TMD (temporomandibular dysfunction/disorder).
What are some of the symptoms that can be associated with TMD? Some of the most common symptoms include:
Keep in mind that the jaw may occasionally make noise without there being a serious problem. There can also be pain with no sound.
How do most medical professionals attempt to treat TMJ disorders?
Table of Contents
Let’s break down the most common TMJ pain treatments into 4 categories:
However, more and more people are looking into home remedies. Why? Because people want to avoid side effects or because they tried traditional methods and nothing has worked. What are some of the home remedies for TMJ disorders?
TMD often resolves in a few days, so before you head to the doctor for something drastic, here are a few things you can do at home to relieve the pain and discomfort.
If you are suffering from chronic TMJ pain, one way you may be able to find some relief is through upper cervical chiropractic. A case study that was published in 2012 (found on pages 75 to 77 of the linked document) showed the results of upper cervical care on 5 patients suffering from TMJ dysfunction. At the beginning of the study, the patients’ average pain level was reported at 5.9 out of 10. After just 8 weeks of care, the average had dropped to 0.9. The patient who still had the worst pain of the 5 reported it at a 2.0 out of 10.
How does the neck affect the jaw? It is interesting to note that many patients with chronic TMJ problems also experience neck pain. This may be because of the close proximity of the C1 (atlas) and the TMJ. A misalignment can easily affect jaw alignment. Thus, correcting the problem may be able to provide the natural relief a person is searching for.
If you are suffering from chronic jaw pain, especially if you have a history of head or neck trauma (concussion, whiplash, etc.), contact an upper cervical practitioner near you to schedule a no-obligation consultation. An examination may reveal that you are suffering from an atlas misalignment, If so, you may have just found the solution to your TMJ pain, and possibly even some other symptoms you may not have realized were coming from this common underlying condition.
TV show host Montel Williams describes how specific chiropractic care has helped his body.
The content and materials provided in this web site are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to supplement or comprise a medical diagnosis or other professional opinion, or to be used in lieu of a consultation with a physician or competent health care professional for medical diagnosis and/or treatment. All content and materials including research papers, case studies and testimonials summarizing patients' responses to care are intended for educational purposes only and do not imply a guarantee of benefit. Individual results may vary, depending upon several factors including age of the patient, severity of the condition, severity of the spinal injury, and duration of time the condition has been present.