Relief From TMJ Pain Without Surgery
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can cause debilitating pain and affect your ability to eat, speak, and enjoy daily activities. Whether it’s due to jaw misalignment, teeth grinding, or muscle tension, TMJ pain can be a frustrating condition. The good news is, you don’t have to live with it. At Canoga Park Chiropractor in Canoga Park, CA, we offer non-surgical, chiropractic solutions to relieve the pain and discomfort associated with TMJ disorders, helping you return to a pain-free life.
What is TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull, allowing you to open and close your mouth to chew, speak, and yawn. When the TMJ isn’t functioning properly, it can lead to pain and discomfort. TMJ disorders occur when the joint, muscles, cartilage, and shock-absorbing disks in the jaw are not working together properly, resulting in severe jaw pain and restricted movement.
What Causes TMJ Disorders?
The exact cause of TMJ disorders is not always clear, but several factors can contribute to the condition, including:
- Disk Erosion or Misalignment: The cartilage or disk in the joint may wear out or shift, affecting the smooth functioning of the jaw.
- Arthritis: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can damage the cartilage in the TMJ, leading to dysfunction.
- Injury: A blow to the jaw or a dislocated jaw can cause damage to the TMJ.
- Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Habitual teeth grinding or jaw clenching can place excessive stress on the TMJ.
- Misaligned Teeth and Jaw: Dental issues such as bite misalignment can contribute to TMJ problems.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
TMJ disorders can cause a range of symptoms that affect both the jaw and surrounding areas. Common symptoms include:
- Pain near the temporomandibular joint or jaw
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Pain in the face, neck, or shoulders
- Difficulty chewing or jaw stiffness
- Locking of the jaw
- Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
- Earaches or ringing in the ears
- Jaw clicking or popping sounds
- Misalignment of upper and lower teeth
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek professional treatment to prevent further discomfort and potential complications.
How is TMJ Treated?
At Canoga Park Chiropractor, we offer a comprehensive treatment plan for TMJ disorders that addresses the underlying causes and alleviates symptoms. Treatment options may include:
Medications: To relax muscles and reduce pain associated with TMJ.
Night Guards: Custom devices that help prevent teeth grinding and jaw clenching, which can worsen TMJ.
Jaw Strengthening and Stretching Exercises: Therapeutic exercises to improve jaw function and reduce pain.
Physical Therapy: Techniques to improve movement and strengthen the muscles around the TMJ.
Cold Laser Therapy: Low-level light therapy that reduces pain and promotes healing in the affected area.
Ultrasound Therapy: Uses sound waves to reduce inflammation and pain in the TMJ.
Electric Muscle Stimulation: Helps relax the muscles and reduce pain by sending electrical impulses to the jaw muscles.
Don’t let TMJ pain control your life. Contact Canoga Park Chiropractor today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward a pain-free jaw.
Frequently Asked Questions
