TMJ

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is where the lower jawbone meets the skull. The TMJ is a complex joint with many different components, allowing us to move our lower jaw in many different directions. Problems with the TMJ can cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw and surrounding facial structures. We offer chiropractic care for TMJ disorders at Lynch Chiropractic Center in Lexington, KY.

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The Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

Pain is the most common symptom of TMJ disorder. You may feel pain in the jaw, ear, face, or neck. Other symptoms include:

Difficulty Chewing

When you have TMJ disorder, you may find it difficult to chew or bite down on hard foods. You may also notice that your teeth are starting to wear down.

Clicking or Popping Sounds

You may hear clicking or popping sounds when you move your jaw. This is caused by the dislocation of the small disc that sits between the ball and socket of the joint.

Lock Jaw

Your TMJ may become locked in one position, making it difficult to move your lower jaw. This can be painful and may make it difficult to eat or speak.

Causes of TMJ Disorder

Many different factors can contribute to TMJ disorder. Some of the most common include:

Arthritis

The natural wear and tear of the joint can lead to arthritis, which can make the joint painful and difficult to move. It can also cause the small disc between the ball and socket to become dislocated.

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Teeth grinding can put a lot of stress on the TMJ, leading to pain and dysfunction. The grinding can also cause the small disc to become dislocated.

Jaw Trauma

Any type of trauma to the jaw, such as a car accident or a fall, can damage the TMJ and lead to pain and dysfunction.

Chiropractic Treatment for TMJ Disorder

When TMJ disorder causes pain and dysfunction in the jaw, chiropractic care can help. Chiropractors use a variety of different techniques to treat TMJ disorder, including:

Manual Manipulation

Chiropractors will manually manipulate the jaw to relieve pain and restore function. This is often done by gently moving the lower jaw from side to side.

Trigger Point Therapy

Trigger point therapy is a type of massage that helps relieve muscle tension and pain. The chiropractor will apply pressure to specific points in the jaw muscles to help relieve pain.

Ultrasound Therapy

Ultrasound therapy uses sound waves to reduce pain and inflammation. The soundwaves will penetrate deep into the tissues to reduce swelling and pain.

Contact Us Today to Schedule an Appointment

If you are suffering from TMJ disorder, we can help. At Lynch Chiropractic Center in Lexington, we offer chiropractic care for TMJ disorders. Dr. Lynch will develop a customized treatment plan to relieve your pain and restore function to the jaw. Call our team today at (859) 266-1999 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.

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