Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD) Therapy

TMJD Therapy in Cordova:  The temporomandibular joint is a hinged joint located on either side of the face that connects the jaw to the skull and is responsible for opening and closing the mouth.  Patients who have Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD) report of pain radiating throughout the face, jaw or neck.  This pain can be associated with chewing but can also be a constant, chronic pain that effects the patient night and day.

Additionally, many patients with TMJD experience additional symptoms which include:

• Tension Headaches
• Earaches
• Frequent Ear Infections
• Ringing in the Ears
• Improper Jaw Function

Natural Treatment of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder at Smith Chiropractic

Chiropractic adjustments and trigger point therapy help to relax the muscles surrounding the temporomandibular joint and carefully realign the jaw.  Additionally, we will recommend changing environmental factors contributing to TMJD.  Other natural remedies include:

• Resting the jaw
• Eating a temporary diet of soft foods that minimize the need for chewing
• Applying ice packs intermittently to the affected area to reduce inflammation
• Applying heat to help reduce pain
• Sleeping with a pillow between your shoulder and neck
• Avoiding open-mouth movements. (Use your fist to apply reciprocal pressure to the jaw to prevent opening the mouth wide when yawning or laughing.)
• Avoiding jaw muscle strain, such as when playing a wind instrument
• Adopting stress-management techniques, such as yoga or massage
• Wearing a simply mouth guard to prevent nighttime grinding or clenching