TMJ Syndrome

tmj syndrome st clair west torontoWhat is TMJ syndrome?

Temporomandibular joint syndrome, or TMJS, is a general term for pain in your temporomandibular joint, which connects your mandible to your skull. TMJS often affects a combination of muscles, nerves, tendons, ligaments, bones, connective tissue and teeth around the joint, and so pain and discomfort can be felt in a variety of ways. TMJS symptoms can involve biting or chewing discomfort, earache, headache, hearing loss, migraine, tinnitus, reduced ability to open or close your mouth, neck and shoulder pain, and even dizziness. Causes of TMJS vary as well, and may include bruxism (repetitive grinding of your teeth), trauma (such as whiplash), poor alignment of your jaw due to genetics, poor dental treatment, anxiety, and stress.

Your doctor may advise using a splint (aka mouth guard), EMG biofeedback (usually to reduce bruxism), surgery, stress management, and pain killers such as acetaminophen or anti-inflammatory medication.

Natural approaches such as acupuncture can be very effective, as this therapy can work in a variety of ways, affecting your muscles, nerves, blood flow, and so on. Chiropractic care is excellent for restoring proper alignment to your neck and upper spine. Physiotherapy can be effective in terms of achieving a better balance through manipulation and exercise.  Massage therapy and osteopathy are also quite effective, as they can reduce stress while also helping your muscles to heal.

Contact us for a FREE consultation on how natural therapy can help you with TMJ syndrome.

These links may also be helpful:

Chiropractic for Jaw Pain

Common Causes of TMJ Pain

Massage Therapy and TMJ Syndrome