When you have a TMJ disorder (referred to as TMD or temporomandibular disorder) the movement of the joints is affected, becoming immobile or causing pain in this area. 

Symptom of a TMJ disorder include: pain in your jaw, face and around your ear when you chew, speak or open your mouth, trouble opening, closing and clenching your jaw, clicking/popping sounds when you move the jaw, dizziness, headaches and tinnitus (ringing in your ears).

The causes of TMJ disorders are typically a combination of factors, such as: grinding your teeth, a trauma to the face/neck/head, an arthritic jaw joint, a misalignment of the teeth (an overbite or underbite), or even stress.

A TMJ disorder is diagnosed by a description of your symptoms and a physical exam. Your doctor may feel along your jaw, ask you to open/close your jaw in order to assess range of motion, any abnormal sounds and pain points.

COMMON CONDITIONS:

• Temporomandibular Joint Disorder/Syndrome (TMJD/S)

• Clenching & Grinding (Bruxism)

• Malocclusion/Misalignment

• Tension-Type Headaches & Migraines

• Limited Range of Motion

• Postural Strain

TECHNIQUES:Our therapists use various techniques for TMJ Massage, including but not limited to:Oral & Postural Assessment

• Intra-oral Massage

• Extra-oral Massage

• Fascial Release

• Neck & Shoulder Massage

• Hydrotherapy 

HOW EACH PRACTITIONER CAN TREAT TMJ:

Chiropractors: Address posture, musculature, and joint function in the neck, upper back, and jaw.

• Use manual and/or instrument- assisted (Activator) adjustments to improve joint mobility & biomechanics.

• Acupuncture - TMJ, Neck & Face

Naturopaths: Implement stress management regimes via acupuncture, supplements, and/or tinctures. Provide acupuncture for muscle relaxation, pain control, and stress relief.

Massage Therapists: Utilizes several techniques to help treat TMJ and the approach will focus on relieving tension, improving range of motion, and reducing pain associated with TMJ. 

Dentists: Assess TMJ, dental health & obtain imaging to assess bony anatomy, make dental devices to protect teeth/tmj & reduce TMJD symptoms.

ACUPUNCTURE:

Acupuncture involves the insertion of small, sterile needles into the body’s tissues (muscle, joint, fascia, etc) for various effects. It is a very effective modality for managing pain, reducing inflammation, and improving muscle tension.

TMJ Acupuncture Benefits:

• Decreased pain & muscular tension

• Reduce intensity & frequency of headaches/migraines

• Improved range of motion

• Stress Management - supports parasympathetic NS Activation