Jaw clicking, pain, or difficulty chewing? Chiropractic care can address the underlying causes of TMJ dysfunction.
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder affects the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, causing pain, clicking, popping, or difficulty moving the jaw. It can also cause ear pain, headaches, facial aching, and neck stiffness. The TMJ is one of the most complex joints in the body, and its dysfunction is often linked to cervical spine misalignment and muscle imbalances.
TMJ disorders affect about 10 million Americans and are more common in women between the ages of 20 and 40. Risk factors include teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw clenching from stress, bite problems, arthritis, and previous jaw or neck injuries. People with chronic neck pain or headaches are also at higher risk for TMJ dysfunction.
The connection between the cervical spine and the jaw is well-established. Misalignments in the upper neck can directly affect jaw mechanics, and tight muscles in the neck and shoulders can pull the jaw out of proper alignment. Chiropractic adjustments to the cervical spine and targeted soft tissue work around the jaw can significantly reduce TMJ symptoms.
At West Omaha Chiropractic, we look beyond the jaw itself to assess your entire cervical spine and posture. Our approach treats the underlying mechanical causes of your TMJ pain — including cervical misalignments and muscle imbalances — to provide lasting relief from jaw pain, headaches, and facial discomfort.
Don't let tmj / jaw pain hold you back. Our team is here to help.