TMJ

It’s estimated that about 5-12% of adults in the United States have temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, experiencing pain in their jaw, face, or neck. Amy Christianson, DC, and the team at IllumINNATE Walk-In Family Chiropractic in Fargo, North Dakota, provide natural chiropractic care to relieve pain from TMJ dysfunction. If you’re looking for a non-drug treatment for your TMJ pain, call today or schedule a consultation online. Walk-in appointments are also available.

What is the temporomandibular joint?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinge joint that connects the lower part of your jaw to your skull. You have one TMJ on each side of your jaw. Located in front of your ear, the TMJ slides and rotates, allowing you to move your jaw from side to side and up and down.

TMJ dysfunction (TMD) refers to conditions that alter the structure or function of the joints, muscles, ligaments, or nerves in the face or jaw, affecting your ability to move your jaw.

What are the symptoms of TMJ dysfunction?

Most people with TMJ dysfunction (TMD) complain of jaw discomfort, especially when eating. But symptoms can vary and may include:

• Headaches or migraines
• Facial pain
• Neck pain
• Shoulder pain
• Clicking or popping of the jaw
• Toothaches
• Earaches
• Problems opening and closing the mouth
• Ringing in your ears (tinnitus)
• Change in your bite

Your medical doctor or dentist may evaluate the movement of your jaw and perform imaging tests to diagnose TMD. Medical treatment for problems with TMJ depends on the severity of symptoms and underlying cause but may include medications, oral appliances, or physical therapy.

Chiropractic care is a complementary therapy that can help you get pain relief from your TMJ naturally.

I have TMJ. How can chiropractic care help?

Chiropractic care at IllumINNATE Walk-In Family Chiropractic for your TMJ helps by finding and treating the root cause of your condition. The certified chiropractors take a collaborative and holistic approach, customizing care so you get fast pain relief that lasts. 

Chiropractic care for TMD may include adjustments of the cervical spine and jaw joint and exercises that stretch and strengthen the jaw muscles.

Spinal correction is the core treatment at IllumINNATE Walk-In Family Chiropractic. Your spine is the body’s central communication highway. Misalignments (subluxations) in the spine disrupt communication, causing pain and other health problems.

Specific adjustments in the cervical spine re-establishes communication to your jaw and face, improving function and alleviating your TMD symptoms.

The team may recommend up to three chiropractic care treatments a week for 2-4 weeks to get the best results.

Call IllumINNATE Walk-In Family Chiropractic today or book an appointment online for your TMJ pain. Walk-in appointments are welcome, as well.