Chiropractic TMJ Disorder and Treatment in Orlando

The temporomandibular joint, which is located where the skull meets the lower jaw, is susceptible to an array of painful symptoms. Like other joints in the body, its components can break down naturally over time, causing the bone to rub together or the jaw to come out of alignment. When this happens, it is called TMJ disorder, or TMJ syndrome. Traditional treatments for this condition typically involve prescription pain medications, dental devices that prevent clenching of the jaw and even surgery. Needless to say, most folks would like to avoid such extreme measures while still enjoying freedom from chronic pain. With chiropractic care from Pavlik Center for Health and Wellness, it may be possible to manage and alleviate pain from TMJ disorder without resorting to more extreme measures.

Symptoms of TMJ

TMJ disorder causes a variety of unpleasant symptoms, so it's little wonder that those who suffer from it are eager to find effective TMJ pain relief techniques. Some of the most common symptoms of TMJ disorder include:

• jaw pain
• jaw stiffness
• clicking in the jaw
• locked jaw
• ear pain
• temple pain
• headache
• popping in the ear

What Causes TMJ Disorder?

TMJ disorder typically occurs when muscle tension and tightness around the temporomandibular joint cause the lower and upper portions of the jaw to pull closer together. At the same time, they fall out of alignment. This phenomenon puts extreme pressure on the joint and usually compresses the disc, which is made out of cartilage and is supposed to act as a buffer or shock absorber. This often hastens the degeneration of the disc as well, causing a vicious cycle.

How Common is TMJ Disorder?

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, approximately 10 million Americans suffer from TMJ disorder or TMJ syndrome. It is also estimated that around 75% of all Americans suffer from at least a few symptoms of TMJ at one point or another. With these points in mind, it's plain to see that TMJ disorder is very common, unfortunately, it isn't always treated properly.

TMJ Treatment Options

Pavlik Center for Health and Wellness offers chiropractic care treatment options that are designed to alleviate the symptoms of TMJ. Because the disorder usually stems from a misalignment of the joint, chiropractic adjustments may help bring everything back into alignment. Our Orlando chiropractic professionals will press on the jaw, upper spine and skull to relieve pressure from irritated nerves. This also helps to improve the range of motion for the joint, which helps to bring it back into optimal working order.

Visit Our Chiropractor in Orlando

We also offer soft tissue therapies that may be used in conjunction with adjustments to more fully address the problem. The chiropractor customizes treatment plans for each patient, and the exact treatments vary depending on the specifics of the condition. In addition to addressing the pain that is caused by TMJ disorder, these treatments help to prevent it from recurring in the future. Therefore, those who are susceptible to TMJ are encouraged to undergo routine chiropractic care to keep TMJ pain at bay. Visit our office to learn more about treatment for TMj or to make an appointment call us today at (407) 423-4761.