TMJ and You

TMJ stands for temporomandibular (TM) joint(s). TMD stands for temporomandibular disorder. Wikipedia defines TMD as “an umbrella term covering pain and dysfunction of the muscles of mastication (the muscles that move the jaw) and the temporomandibular joints (the joints which connect the mandible to the skull).”

The main feature of this discussion is that the syndrome of TMJ causes pain. It is a complex condition. TMJ Syndrome may also cause restriction of the mandible as well as clicking and popping sounds from the TMJ itself. Those suffering from TMJ Syndrome suffer from headaches, facial and neck pain.

TMD may be caused by a trauma. This includes an injury to the jaw as well as an overuse by chewing, including gum, excessively or using one side of your mouth too much.

Many doctors attribute the syndrome to genetic, hormonal or anatomical causes. Stress and anxiety may exacerbate the symptoms of TMJ Syndrome. Emotional distress may be more of a consequence of the pain associated with TMJ leading to worsening of the symptoms. However, there is no reason to live with the pain! We can help TMJ sufferers, especially if it is a chronic condition.

At Integrated Physical Medicine, an Evansville chiropractic and physiotherapy clinic, we help to manage and alleviate the pain associated with TMJ. Methods of treatment for TMJ include chiropractic, physiotherapy, clinical massage therapy, trigger point dry needling and acupuncture as well as coordinating your care with your dental and medical providers if necessary for oral appliances and pain medication.

We have helped literally hundreds of patients with TMD and TMJ Syndrome. As the Tri-state’s leader in non-surgical TMJ care, we have all the necessary treatments in our arsenal to help you overcome TMJ Syndrome.

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