TMJ Pain: Here’s Everything You Should Know
Discomfort when eating or chewing. Clicking or popping noises when you move your jaw. Stiffness and pain around the jaw and cheeks. These are all signs of issues with your TMJ. And they can definitely throw a wrench in your daily activities or plans. So, what can you do about it?
In this article, we take a closer look at what causes TMJ pain and how you can fix it. Let’s get you back on track—without pain standing in your way.
What Is the TMJ?
The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull, acting like a sliding hinge. It’s what allows you to talk, chew, and yawn. However, when there’s a problem with this joint, it can lead to discomfort and pain, commonly referred to as TMJ syndrome or TMJ pain.
Most often, TMJ pain arises due to imbalances or unhealthy habits. Luckily, there are ways to solve this problem. Below, we look at the causes in more detail and how you can finally rid yourself of jaw pain.
Causes of TMJ Pain
TMJ pain can be due to genetics, arthritis, or jaw injury. Stress often plays a role, too, leading to habits like teeth grinding, which exacerbate the condition. Misalignment of the teeth or jaw can also contribute to TMJ pain.
So, how can you know what’s causing yours? Well, when you visit your local chiropractor or doctor, they will perform a thorough assessment. This will help determine the root cause of your pain and make way for a relevant treatment plan specific to you and your needs.
How Do You Fix TMJ Pain?
The good news is that there are many ways to approach and resolve your TMJ pain. Rest assured, you don’t have to live with it (nor should you!). Here are three major approaches to addressing your pain and moving past it.
Self-Care Practices
At Anchor Health Chiropractic, we often recommend self-care practices, even alongside chiropractic care. These include stress reduction techniques, jaw exercises, and being mindful of jaw movements. Avoiding hard foods and practicing relaxation techniques can also help. This ensures you don’t re-aggravate the jaw and muscles in this area and can pave the way toward a full recovery.
Medical Treatments
In some cases, more traditional medical treatments may be necessary. This could include dental splints, medications, or physical therapy. As your local Noblesville chiropractor, we work closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure a comprehensive approach to your TMJ pain.
Chiropractic Care
At Anchor Health Chiropractic, we believe in the power of holistic healing. Chiropractic care can be incredibly effective for TMJ pain. Adjustments can help align the spine and jaw, relieving tension and improving nerve function. Our approach is gentle yet effective, aiming to alleviate pain without invasive procedures.
Before we begin any treatment, we always perform a thorough initial evaluation. This ensures that you’re getting the care you deserve and that is specific to you and your pain.
Your Next Step
Suffering from TMJ pain? Don’t let it hold you back any longer. At Anchor Health Chiropractic, we’re committed to helping you find relief and improve your quality of life. Our experienced team is here to offer personalized care tailored to your specific needs.
Take the first step towards relief. Contact us today to book your appointment, and begin your journey toward a pain-free life!
