TMJ dysfunction is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This is the joint that attaches the lower mandible to the rest of the skull. Therefore, a problem can cause numerous symptoms. Here are some signs that there is something wrong with the TMJ along with a natural way to seek lasting relief.
Symptoms of a TMJ Issue
The primary symptom that people usually identify TMJ dysfunction by is pain. Here is a more extensive list of symptoms that can help to identify the underlying problem.
- Jaw pain that radiates toward the ear or neck
- Pain when chewing
- A popping, clicking, or grinding sound when opening and closing the jaw
- Limited range of motion in the joint.
Thus, a person with a TMJ problem may have difficulty chewing and speaking. Even in a relaxed position, there may be some pain or tenderness. What can help this problem? The solution lies in understanding the underlying problem.
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Why TMJ Problems Often Start in the Neck
The atlas vertebra (top bone in the spine) is positioned near the jaw and ear. When out of alignment, the ear, jaw, and facial nerves can be affected, jaw alignment may be thrown off, or inflammation may occur in the TMJ area. Correcting the underlying problem can give the body time to heal nerve and tissue damage that is causing TMJ pain.
Upper cervical chiropractic care focuses specifically on identifying and correcting misalignments of the atlas. Specialized imaging techniques allow the upper cervical specialist to identify specific misalignments. Then a low force correction is used to fix the problem. These gentle adjustments are long-lasting and maximize the body’s time to heal the damage caused by the misalignment. As a result, patients may feel immediate relief and even more benefits over time.
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