TMJ dysfunction is a term used to describe a range of conditions that cause pain and other symptoms in the TMJ (temporomandibular joint). A study revealed the connection between TMJ pain and whiplash-type injuries. This can help direct patients to the right form of care.
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60 patients who had suffered whiplash due to rear-end car accidents were evaluated over the course of 1 year. 34% of the patients suffered from TMJ problems by the end of the year as opposed to just 7% of patients in a control group.
The TMJ is one of the most complex joints in the body, allowing a person to chew, speak, and shift the jaw in various ways. When this function is affected, pain can become a part of everyday life. The study revealed that a whiplash injury could lead to TMJ pain, which helps draw a parallel between neck injuries and jaw pain.
When a person experiences whiplash, the bones of the upper cervical spine may become misaligned. These bones are a different shape than the rest of the vertebrae and facilitate the majority of a person’s ability to move the head. As a result of this mobility, these bones are subject to subluxation during a head or neck trauma.
A misaligned C1 (atlas) can affect the jaw. This is why many TMJ dysfunction patients also experience neck pain as a symptom. It’s also why upper cervical chiropractors have a good success rate with helping patients with TMJ pain.
When the upper neck is back in proper position, the jaw can heal, inflammation may be reduced, and pain can be relieved. Upper cervical adjustments are designed to be gentle so that the alignment lasts longer and the body has more time to heal nerves and soft tissue. To learn more, schedule a consultation with an upper cervical chiropractor near you.
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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.
