Temporomandibular Joint disorder or TMJ is a mechanical dysfunction of one or both of the joints of the jaw. TMJ occurs right in front of the ears, as a result, a patient with TMJ might also have a problem with their ears, like grinding, cracking and hearing the joint pop when the mouth opens or closes.
In a normal condition, these joints help by acting as shock absorbers for the jaw. This cushioning effect is decreased when a misalignment or breakdown of cartilage in any of the joints take place. Continuous stress from chewing can cause pain and soreness in the joints and the muscles surrounding the joints. Headache, dizziness, jaw pain and earaches are the results of disturbances to normal function. The causes can be uneven bite, trauma to the jaw, keeping the mouth open for a long period of time, bruxism or grinding the teeth and imbalance in the bite from dental restoration.
In order to check if popping and clicking noises, soreness and pain in the ear are due to TMJ. Whether there is damage or deterioration to the cartilage in the joint, x-rays, MRI also be done.
Chiropractic Treatment for TMJ Disorder
Chiropractic care can be effective at reducing the pain associated with TMJ, Chiropractic adjustment on TMJ misalignment, focuses on relieving tension in the muscles around the joints themselves
Activator Method – While there are numerous ways to effectively treat temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, this tool that delivers high-frequency, low-impact adjustments. All participants showed improvements in the distance they could open their jaws and in pain measurements.
Application of cold compresses, which reduces inflammation.
When teeth grinding or clenching is an issue, wearing a mouth night guard can help prevent these actions during sleep.
Bite plates can help correct misalignment.
Stress reduction, relaxation techniques, jaw-stretching exercises, and modifying chewing habits are all behavioral approaches that are proven effective.