By Andrew Siyabalawatte Nov, 2022
If you’re dealing with jaw and ear pain, the solution might lie in chiro for TMJ disorders. Chiropractic care for TMJ can help ease discomfort and restore normal function in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the joint that connects your jaw to your skull.
Frequently misidentified as a toothache, jaw ache, or facial pain can commonly result from an issue with the TMJ. It’s essential to recognize that TMJ-related problems may manifest as discomfort in the jaw or face, often resembling dental pain. Addressing these TMJ issues is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management.
The TMJ
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ), situated on either side and in front of the ears, functions by allowing you to open your mouth. A common issue that many people overlook is the connection between jaw pain and ear discomfort—two symptoms that often go hand-in-hand in TMJ disorders.
How Can Chiropractic Help TMJ?
Chiropractic care targets the root causes of TMJ disorders, such as misalignment of the jaw or neck. By addressing these underlying issues, Chiro for TMJ can help in the following ways:
Alignment adjustments: Chiropractors use gentle adjustments to realign the jaw and spine, reducing strain on the TMJ.
Muscle relaxation: Techniques like massage and stretching can ease muscle tension around the jaw, reducing pain.
Improved joint mobility: Regular adjustments can help restore movement in the TMJ, improving function and reducing discomfort.
Symptoms of TMJ You Shouldn’t Ignore
- Jaw pain or tenderness, often near the ear
- Clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw
- Ear pain or pressure, especially when chewing or speaking
- Headaches and facial pain
Other common causes of left or right sided Jaw Pain
- Excessive grinding of teeth at night
- Involuntary jaw clenching
- Trauma – being hit in the face, common in contact sports like football and boxing
- Toothache
- Wear and tear of the TMJ joint
- TMJ misalignment
- Earache
Jaw Pain TMJ Hypermobility
Joint hypermobility is a hereditary problem defined by the increase in range of motion in multiple joints. Several studies have concluded joint hypermobility to be considered a risk factor for temporomandibular disorders (TMD) as the ligaments that hold the tmj together become excessively elongated (ligament laxity).
A Pain in the Ear
An earache can be linked to jaw pain, given the proximity of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) to the ear canal. This interconnected discomfort underscores the complex relationship between ear issues and adjacent structures.
Why Chiropractic Care Works for TMJ
When you choose chiro for TMJ, you’re not just treating the symptoms—you’re addressing the underlying causes of discomfort. Misalignments in the spine or jaw can increase stress on the TMJ, leading to pain and dysfunction. A chiropractor will focus on restoring balance and reducing stress on the joint.
How to treat Jaw Pain and TMJ Disorders
- Warm water compress (tea towel)
- Wearing a mouth guard at night
- strengthening exercises
Strengthening Exercises for Ear And Jaw Pain
To resist mouth closing, gently apply pressure to the top of your chin as you gradually close your mouth. Hold closed against resistance for a few seconds. Repeat 8-10 times daily
Resist Mouth Opening. This action helps to mobilize the jaw joint smoothly. Hold open under resistance for a few seconds. Repeat 8-10 times daily.
Chin Tucks – Bring chin in towards the neck. Hold for 5 secs. Repeat 8-10 times daily.
Is Chiropractic Care Right for You?
If you’re experiencing jaw pain or ear discomfort, chiropractic care might be the solution you’ve been searching for jaw issues, book an visit with us for personalized guidance and relief. We can assist in relieving the pain and provide advice on effective management strategies. Book to see our team in our Guildford clinic.