TMJ disorder or temporomandibular joint dysfunction is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a painful condition that causes discomfort, pain, and limited movement in the jaw joint. There are various causes of TMJ, and it can be challenging to identify them. In this blog, we’ll discuss the primary causes of TMJ and how physiotherapy and chiropractic care can help alleviate the pain.
Teeth Grinding and Clenching
Bruxism or teeth grinding is a common aggravator of TMJ. Grinding or clenching your teeth puts excessive pressure on the TMJ, leading to inflammation and pain. Physiotherapy or chiropractic care can help ease the symptoms of TMJ related to bruxism. A physiotherapist can show you jaw stretches and exercises to ease the tension in your jaw muscles. A chiropractor can also help align the jaw and reduce pressure on the joint.
Trauma or Injury
Trauma or injury to the jaw, head, or neck can cause TMJ. For example, a car accident or sports injury can damage the jaw joint or the surrounding muscles and tissues. Physiotherapy and chiropractic care can help alleviate TMJ pain caused by trauma or injury. A physiotherapist can use heat therapy, massage, or ultrasound to reduce inflammation and increase blood flow to the injured area. A chiropractor can also use spinal adjustments to help the body heal faster.
Arthritis
Arthritis is a chronic condition that causes inflammation and pain in the joints. It can affect any joint in the body, including the temporomandibular joint. Arthritis-related TMJ usually causes chronic pain and stiffness in the jaw joint. Physiotherapy or chiropractic care can help alleviate the symptoms of TMJ caused by arthritis. A physiotherapist can show you exercises to improve range of motion and reduce pain and stiffness. A chiropractor can also use spinal adjustments to improve joint mobility and reduce pain.
Poor Posture
Poor posture can also contribute to TMJ. Slouching or hunching your shoulders can cause tension in your neck and jaw muscles, leading to TMJ pain. Physiotherapy and chiropractic care can help alleviate TMJ pain caused by poor posture. A physiotherapist can show you exercises to improve your posture and relieve tension in your neck and jaw muscles. A chiropractor can also use spinal adjustments to correct any spinal misalignments that may be contributing to poor posture. Avoid a poor posture to evade TMJ disorder.
Stress
Stress can also cause TMJ. Stress can cause you to clench your teeth or tighten your jaw muscles, leading to TMJ pain. Physiotherapy and chiropractic care can help alleviate TMJ pain caused by stress. A physiotherapist can show you relaxation techniques and stress management strategies to help you manage your stress levels. A chiropractor can also use spinal adjustments to ease tension in the neck and jaw muscles.
TMJ can be a debilitating condition that affects your everyday life. Fortunately, physiotherapy and chiropractic care can help alleviate the pain and discomfort caused by TMJ. If you are suffering from TMJ, it’s important to speak with your physiotherapist or chiropractor to identify the underlying causes of your TMJ and develop a treatment plan that works for you. Remember, early intervention and treatment can help prevent long-term complications and improve your quality of life.
