What is TMJ?
Temporo-mandibular joint disorder (TMJ) is a disorder that affects the jaw joint. It is a common condition that affects people of all ages, but it is most frequently found in individuals who are over the age of 35.
The cause of TMJ is not known at this time. However, researchers believe that TMJ is caused by a combination of factors, including abnormal posture, stress, and trauma to the jaw. The most common cause of TMJ is abnormal posture, which leads to repetitive jaw injuries while talking, eating, or chewing.
Signs and Symptoms of TMJ
Typical symptoms of TMJ include pain and tenderness in the jaw joint, headaches, and difficulty chewing, yawning, talking, and sleeping. In extreme cases, people with TMJ may also experience jaw locking or sharp pain in the ear.
How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects TMJ
The upper cervical spine is a region of the spine that connects the skull to the neck. It is made up of seven vertebrae, which together form the craniovertebral junction (CVJ). Because of its proximity to the brainstem and central nervous system (CNS), the CVJ plays a key role in regulating nerve function, joint mobility, and craniofacial musculature.
When there is a misalignment in the upper cervical spine, it can adversely affect the stabilizing muscles in the head and neck, leading to postural defects like anterior head carriage. By pushing the head into a forward position, the skull and the jaw are pressed closer together. This causes the muscles of the jaw to work harder than they would in a normal position. Over time, repetitive stress injuries around the jaw will compound, potentially leading to the development of TMJ.
How Our TMJ Treatment Works
Our treatment for TMJ involves correcting the upper cervical spine to restore the normal relationship between the skull and the neck. The goal of this treatment is to return the muscles of the jaw to their normal resting position and to reduce the likelihood of future jaw injuries.
At our office, treatment for TMJ begins with a comprehensive physical assessment. During this exam, our expert chiropractor, Dr. Bello, will use mild X-rays and cone-beam computed tomography to pinpoint the exact angle and location of the misaligned vertebrae.
Armed with this information, Dr. Bello will perform a series of gentle, non-invasive upper cervical chiropractic corrections to realign the upper cervical spine. While the patient is under the care of our chiropractor, they will be provided with a customized care plan to alleviate any persistent symptoms and prevent the recurrence of TMJ.
If you’re tired of suffering from TMJ, Dr. Bello is here to help you. He offers upper cervical chiropractic care for TMJ to patients in Culver City, Los Angeles, Marina Del Rey, Beverly Hills, Brentwood, Westwood, Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, and the surrounding areas.