Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders can cause persistent jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing, affecting daily life and well-being. Many people are now turning to chiropractic care for a natural, non-invasive approach to TMJ relief. Chiropractors can help alleviate TMJ symptoms by addressing the root causes through targeted techniques. Chiropractic care is becoming a trusted option for TMJ relief, providing an effective way to reduce discomfort and promote long-term healing.
Understanding TMJ
TMJ is an acronym that is used to describe the temporomandibular joint. We often refer to disorders of this joint as temporomandibular joint disorders, which could encompass a variety of problems that often revolve around clenching and grinding the teeth or even arthritic changes at the joint.
What is important to understand about temporomandibular disorders is that they are often associated with high levels of stress, depression, and general mental health difficulties. In many cases, these disorders develop subconsciously such as when we clench and grind our teeth while we are asleep.
Chiropractic Techniques Used for TMJ Treatment
Our chiropractors are trained in treating temporomandibular disorders through a variety of techniques. These may include:
- Mouth Guards: One of the first things your chiropractor will do is assess whether there is any grinding or clenching of the teeth. If we find that this is the case, we have colleagues who provide mouthguards which can help prevent exacerbation of symptoms and damage to the joint while we work on the rehabilitation. These guards act as a barrier to reduce pressure on the TMJ and prevent further damage to the joint.
- Soft Tissue Therapy: Soft tissue techniques that target the muscles used to clench the jaw and chew often provide immediate relief. By focusing on muscles like the masseter, temporalis, and surrounding areas, soft tissue therapy can alleviate tension, reduce spasms, and improve flexibility. This approach not only eases jaw discomfort but also enhances overall muscle function around the temporomandibular joint.
- Joint Adjustments: When necessary, we can try to adjust the temporomandibular joint or any other joint of the neck that may be affected. Gentle manipulation helps improve joint function and mobility, reducing strain on the TMJ and relieving associated symptoms like headaches or neck pain. By addressing dysfunction in the TMJ or cervical spine, joint manipulation supports proper function and relieves pressure on surrounding tissues.
- Exercise and Stretching Recommendations: Gentle jaw and neck exercises, such as controlled stretching and relaxation exercises, can relieve tension in the TMJ and neck area. Regular, low-impact physical activity like walking or yoga can also help reduce stress, indirectly benefiting TMJ health.
- Sleep Hygiene Tips: Since TMJ issues are often linked to teeth grinding or clenching during sleep, good sleep hygiene can be beneficial. Chiropractors may suggest establishing a relaxing bedtime routine, avoiding stimulants, and considering a mouthguard to protect the TMJ during sleep.
- Acupuncture: Acupuncture can be an effective complementary treatment for TMJ disorders. By targeting specific points around the jaw and face, acupuncture helps reduce inflammation, relieve muscle tension, and improve blood flow in the affected area. This treatment can also promote relaxation and reduce stress, which are often underlying factors in TMJ-related pain.
Is Chiropractic Treatment Effective for Chronic TMJ Disorders?
Chronic temporomandibular joint disorders often require a multi-faceted approach. In most cases, we often find that there is a substantial influence of stress or depression. This is where we need to consider getting a mouthguard or something that prevents the individual from clenching and grinding their teeth while they are asleep.
For more severe cases, the medical professionals at our clinic can offer Botox injections which provide substantial relief for temporomandibular joint disorders, even if they are chronic, or accompanied by migraines.
How Many Chiropractic Sessions Are Needed for TMJ Relief?
In most cases, significant relief can be achieved within just a few sessions. However, the outcome is dependent on a variety of factors, including the severity of the disorder and how long it has been affecting the individual.
Chronic TMJ issues or those caused by long-standing habits, such as teeth grinding or poor posture, may require a longer treatment plan to fully address underlying issues. Additionally, individual response to chiropractic care can vary; some people experience rapid improvement, while others may need a gradual, steady approach. Regular follow-up sessions or maintenance visits may also be recommended to prevent recurrence and support ongoing joint health.
Managing TMJ Symptoms: Recommended Lifestyle Changes
Making a few lifestyle adjustments can help manage TMJ symptoms and support chiropractic care. Here are some helpful strategies:
- Stress Reduction: Stress often leads to clenching and grinding, worsening TMJ symptoms. Regular mindfulness practices, deep breathing, or yoga can reduce tension in the jaw and minimize flare-ups.
- Posture Awareness: Poor posture can increase neck and jaw tension. Maintain a neutral spine with shoulders relaxed and head centred to reduce jaw strain. Gentle neck and shoulder stretches can also help.
- Warm and Cold Therapy: Applying warm compresses can relax tight jaw muscles, while ice packs reduce inflammation. Alternating these can provide effective relief from pain and stiffness.
- Limit Clenching: Becoming mindful of clenching or grinding, especially during stress, can prevent unnecessary strain. Using a mouthguard at night and keeping the jaw slightly relaxed during the day helps minimize TMJ tension.
These changes, along with chiropractic care, can make a notable difference in managing TMJ symptoms and promoting long-term jaw health.
The Impact of Food Choices on TMJ Management and Recovery
Diet and food choices directly impact the physical strain on the temporomandibular joint, making careful selection of foods essential in managing TMJ discomfort. Softer foods are generally easier on the jaw and reduce the repetitive stress involved in chewing. Foods like mashed potatoes, oatmeal, scrambled eggs, soups, and smoothies require minimal chewing effort, allowing the jaw to rest and recover during periods of intense pain or flare-ups.
On the other hand, hard, crunchy, or sticky foods can increase strain and tension in the jaw, often worsening TMJ symptoms. Foods like raw vegetables, nuts, crusty bread, and chewy meats demand more jaw movement and forceful chewing, which can lead to muscle fatigue and exacerbate jaw pain. Limiting these foods helps prevent overuse of the jaw muscles, reducing the likelihood of inflammation or increased tension.
Even small adjustments, like cutting food into smaller pieces, can make a difference. Smaller bites require less force to chew, which helps alleviate pressure on the TMJ. Avoiding gum or other repetitive chewing habits also reduces joint strain, preventing further irritation to the already sensitive area. By choosing foods that are easier on the jaw, those with TMJ disorders can experience less physical discomfort and better support their body’s healing process.
Find the Relief You’ve Been Looking For
If TMJ pain is interfering with your life, chiropractic care may be the solution you need. At Ottawa Health: Performance and Rehabilitation, our skilled team is experienced in TMJ management, using gentle techniques to relieve pain and restore comfort naturally. Don’t let TMJ symptoms hold you back—schedule an appointment with us today to explore how chiropractic care can support your TMJ relief and overall health.
