This disorder can be painful with isolated pain and even headaches caused by the joint disorder between the temporal bone of the face and the mandible, the jaw bone. This joint works as a sliding joint and with the disorder clicking, popping, and locking of the jaw can occur. Symptoms associated with this syndrome are jaw pain, ear pain, headaches, tinnitus (ringing of the ear), and dizziness.

The cause of this disorder is usually a muscular imbalance associated with the muscles of mastication (muscle used to chew). The imbalance of muscles puts constant stress on the area and when the jaw is opened, the tight muscles pull on the jaw, causing a deviation in the jaw upon opening. Stretching or breaking down the tight muscles and strengthening the weak or overpowered muscles will help balance this condition, keeping the jaw in the joint when opening and closing the mouth.

This joint also contains a disc, which over time can break down causing pain and sensitivity over the joint.

CAUSES OF TMJ in Northwest Chicago IL

TMJ has a myriad of potential causes that your Northwest Chicago IL chiropractors will explore when you book your appointment. Some of the known causes of TMJ include serious jaw trauma or dislocation, physical or emotional stress, or even sitting in a dentist's chair for long periods of time with your mouth wide open. The emotional stress doesn't end up causing TMJ on its own, but if you tend to clench your teeth as a result, this may end up causing it. Statistics show that women are four times as likely to suffer from TMJ as men.

CAN A Northwest Chicago IL chiropractor HELP TMJ?

Once your chiropractor confirms that you do have TMJ, you'll be given a treatment plan based on the specifics of your situation. Our team at Elite Total Rehab wants to get to the cause of your problem so every angle is explored before a thorough plan is created. Usually, a treatment plan for TMJ will include chiropractic adjustments, special exercises, and possibly heat or ice to lessen pain if it is particularly painful.

If you have any of the symptoms of TMJ, schedule a consultation with a chiropractor as soon as possible. It's also important that you follow any advice or recommendations given during that consultation and subsequent appointments. Every exercise and treatment is designed to remove the underlying cause of the problem and restore your jaw function back to normal.

At Elite Total Rehab our team is here to help answer your questions. Please feel free to contact us today.

Northwest Chicago IL CHIROPRACTOR MAY HELP TMJ

WHAT IS TMJ?

CAUSES OF TMJ in Northwest Chicago IL

CAN A Northwest Chicago IL chiropractor HELP TMJ?