Do you need a chiropractor for TMJ relief in Riverton, UT? Look no further because here at Balanced Chiropractic in Riverton, UT, we got you covered with precise and gentle care. Are you wondering how our upper cervical chiropractors can help alleviate your TMJ pain?

First, we will take an in-depth look at various TMJ disorders and the connection between the neck and any dysfunction of the jaw. Then, we will directly address the benefits you should not miss with upper cervical chiropractic care.

TMJ DISORDER SYMPTOMS

When people suffer from any TMJ problem, there are varying symptoms they deal with. Each sign depends on the particular underlying cause of that issue. Look at this record of symptoms carefully. It will help you better understand why upper cervical chiropractors always look at the neck to find an effective jaw pain solution. Here is a list of some of the most common symptoms of TMJ disorder:

• TMJ PAIN

It is the symptom that numerous people identify with their TMJ problems. The TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, is on both sides of the skull near the neck and ears. Tenderness or pain can happen chronically or acutely in this particular region. But thankfully, you can TMJ relief in Riverton, UT is very much possible.

• LIMITED RANGE OF MOTION

Take note that the jaw acts as both a sliding joint and a hinge. People with TMJ problems experience limitations in the range of motion of their jaw due to pain.

• PAIN THAT RADIATES TOWARD THE EARS OR NECK

TMJ pain is seldom isolated to the jaw. In short, pain may radiate toward the neck or ears. Thus, it provides us with yet another clue and proof that the neck has a connection in various TMJ problems.

• JAW NOISE

The jaw may also make some weird sounds whenever you chew or move it in various other ways. However, please keep in mind that not every jaw noise automatically shows a chronic problem. Also, if the noise stops, it does not mean that a previous condition has cleared up. What other types of sounds will you usually hear? Most individuals describe it as popping, clicking, or grinding noise.

• TRIGEMINAL NEURALGIA

The trigeminal nerve positions near the jaw joint, and this nerve branches out into three parts to provide a sensation to the face. Depending on the nerve that becomes irritated, you may feel some facial pain in various locations, particularly when making certain expressions (like frowning or smiling) or performing specific activities like brushing your teeth.

These five are just a few of the most common signs of TMJ disorder. You may also experience some other pains or issues not listed here.

SELF-CARE FOR YOUR TMJ PROBLEMS 

If you are suffering from the symptoms listed above, you may want to try some self-care first before seeing a doctor, dentist, or upper cervical chiropractor. While this list of self-care remedies will not resolve any underlying issues, it can help with minor cases of TMJ pain. It can also provide a small measure of relief so that you will not require any pain medication while waiting to receive proper medical care from a medical professional.

• EAT SOFT FOODS

There are easy and practical ways to do this method. You can start switching your breakfast meal from a hamburger to soft scrambled eggs. This simple yet effective choice will give your jaw the time it needs to recover and relax from overuse. You can also avoid other activities that can further strain the jaw, such as singing or shouting.

• APPLY ICE FOR INFLAMMATION

Inflammation occasionally accompanies TMJ pain. Inflammation usually occurs due to an accident or injury. Applying an ice pack on the swollen area can be an effective way to minimize inflammation.

Applying a heat compress on the inflammation may feel good initially. Unfortunately, it will also send more immune cells and blood to the affected area. Thus, it would result in actually increasing inflammation, producing more pain.

• STRETCHES OR MASSAGE

Start doing some gentle stretches and massage on the painful area. In most cases, it can help a tired jaw feel much better. These two methods can also provide some limited relief for those with moderate to severe TMJ pain. Be careful not to overwork the jaw, or else, the problem might increase as a result.

These are straightforward yet most often effective ways to reduce TMJ pain at home. But how can you find lasting relief from chronic jaw pain? Let’s again take a closer look at the relevant connection between the jaw and the neck.

UPPER CERVICAL CHIROPRACTIC AND TMJ PROBLEMS

The closeness of the C1 (atlas) vertebra to your jaw and ears is something you cannot ignore. This atlas bone supports and balances the skull. It is also responsible for more than half the movement of the head. Even the slightest of misalignments can result in adverse changes that will affect the ears, jaw, facial nerve, and more. Once a misalignment happens in the upper cervical spine’s top bone, the surrounding tissues will make the necessary compensations to maintain the head’s balance. This series of reactions will also impact the TMJ, thus leading to the symptoms noted earlier.

Once the misalignment becomes corrected, the atlas vertebra can move back to its original position. Many patients experience immediate results, such as less pain and fewer TMJ problems. Later, the body will heal more naturally. The soft tissues that support the jaw and neck muscles will have more time to heal correctly. The adjustment will then hold longer, and it will cause far-reaching positive results throughout the body. You may experience overall wellness and even a better sleep pattern due to the upper cervical adjustment.

Visit our office if you need a chiropractor for your TMJ problems. Remember, TMJ relief in Riverton, UT can be yours any time. Request an appointment with our chiropractor by calling 801-477-7222 or sending us an email. Our upper cervical chiropractor will ensure that you receive a gentle and safe spinal adjustment calculated for your particular misalignment. This can bring lasting TMJ relief.