What is TMJ Dysfunction?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull and is located just below the ear. TMJ disorders are an exceedingly common musculoskeletal problem, with women having a particularly high risk of developing the condition. A TMJ dysfunction is typically caused by a misaligned or displaced TMJ disc that interferes with the natural function of the TMJ.
Signs and Symptoms of TMJ Dysfunction
Most instances of TMJ disorders occur due to an imbalance in the mastication muscle group (the muscles that help you chew). This can occur from teeth grinding, orthodontic treatment, poor posture, or jaw clenching from chronic stress.
Some symptoms that could indicate a TMJ disorder include popping in the craniofacial area, feeling as though your lower jaw doesn't sit correctly, limited movement in the jaw, frequent headaches, ringing in the ears, pain in the face and/or neck, and shifts in jaw alignment.
How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects TMJ Dysfunction
Patients suffering from TMJ rarely consider the role the upper cervical spine can play in their condition. However, research suggests that up to 75% of TMJ cases are related to misalignment in the upper cervical spine. Put simply, a misalignment in the upper cervical spine can place pressure on the trigeminal nerve, a major craniofacial nerve responsible for regulating the function of the mastication muscle group. Left untreated, pinching or compression of the trigeminal nerve can inflame the muscles around the TMJ and lead to severe discomfort and painful TMJ disorders.
How Our TMJ Dysfunction Treatment Works
Dr. Gordon Elder, of the Blair Chiropractic Clinic, is an upper cervical chiropractor who uses the Blair Chiropractic Technique. This technique specifically focuses on restoring function to the upper cervical spine which in turn re-engages the body’s ability to naturally heal itself.
When treating TMJ dysfunction, Dr. Elder implements a two-step approach. Initially, you will have a 25 to 30-minute screening appointment with Dr. Elder where he will determine whether a vertebral misalignment is the cause of your TMJ dysfunction. An advanced 3-D imaging diagnostic technique will be used to pinpoint misalignments in the upper cervical spine. Then, Dr. Elder will provide you with a report on his findings. At any stage of the process, you can ask Dr. Elder any questions that you may have.
Following the initial screening, Dr. Elder will then perform a series of low-force adjustments, that are gentle, to reposition misaligned vertebrae which will alleviate the pressure that has built up. After the first adjustment, you will be encouraged to return for several appointments for at least 3 months to make sure that the adjustments are set. On average, you can expect approximately 10 to 15 appointments over a period of 3 to 5 months.
If TMJ dysfunction is precluding you from living life to its fullest, then please get in touch with us to schedule an appointment with Dr. Elder. Located in Lubbock, Texas, Blair Chiropractic Clinic also services the surrounding areas of Abilene, Odessa, Amarillo, Midland, El Paso in Texas, and Hobbs in New Mexico.
Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.