What is TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome)?
It is estimated that 10 million Americans suffer from TMJ syndrome, a condition in which the temporomandibular joint does not function properly. The TMJ connects the temporal bone (the bone that forms the sides of the scull) with the mandible (the jaw bone). We use this joint more frequently than most of the other joints in our bodies. Every time we talk, chew, bite down, or swallow we put the TMJ to work. This condition produces pain in the muscles and joints of the jaw that can radiate to the face, neck, head and even the shoulders. There also may be difficulty opening the mouth wide or you may hear clicking and popping noises when talking, chewing or yawning. The most common causes of TMJ are: poor bite or posture, stress, nocturnal teeth grinding and trauma. Injury to the joint is caused by: overuse; favoring one side when chewing and biting down; or trauma such as injury due to whiplash or impact. Overuse usually applies to clenchers and grinders. People tend to clench their jaws tightly together primarily due to stress while others grind their teeth while sleeping. Those who frequently chew gum overwork the joint and tend to be susceptible to TMJ problems.
Chiropractic and TMJ
Many people suffering from TMJ are prescribed splints by their dentist or orthodontist. While splints are effective, many patients find them to be disruptive to their personal and professional lives as well as uncomfortable. This often results in patients not wearing their splints for the duration required for sustained pain relief and successful healing. A very effective way to treat TMJ problems is through a combination of chiropractic and rehabilitative exercises. While treatment plans vary for individual patients, a typical plan includes gentle stretching and manipulation of the jaw joints, the neck and associated muscles. Rehabilitative exercises are taught to the patients in the office and are easily done by the patient at home or while working. Frequently and most commonly, patients receiving chiropractic and rehabilitative exercises recover faster and have better compliance than those wearing a splint alone.
Locate your TMJ
Have you wondered where you find your temporomandibular joint? You can locate it by placing your fingers on that triangle of skin in the front of your ears and then moving them forward a bit. You will feel a small depression between bones there. When you open and close your mouth a few times you can feel the motion of the joint.
Posture and TMJ Pain
At first glance, the relationship between your posture and TMJ pain may not seem obvious. However, a forward head and rounded shoulders (you know, the way you sit when you’re working at your computer) changes the way the joint and the head and neck muscles that support it work. Therefore, correcting your posture can also bring relief to TMJ pain as well.