TMJ Disorder Specialist

What is temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder?

TMJ disorder is a chronic pain condition that affects the two joints on either side of your jaw, as well as your facial muscles.

Your TMJ is a hinge joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. The sliding joint allows you to move your jaw up and down and side to side, which helps you speak, chew, and swallow.

Like other joints in your body, your TMJ is a complex system made up of bones, cartilage, ligaments, and muscles that must all work together to function properly.

Any damage or disease that affects any of the components that make up these joints may lead to pain and a TMJ disorder.

What are symptoms of a TMJ disorder?

Pain in your jaw or facial muscles is a common TMJ disorder symptom. With TMJ disorder, you may also experience a clicking or grating sensation when you open or close your jaw. TMJ disorders may also cause the joint to lock, limiting or halting mobility.

TMJ disorders are often overlooked and not properly diagnosed and assessed. Seattle Chiropractic Spine & Injury Center specializes in TMJ disorders. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, contact the chiropractic office today.

What causes TMJ disorder?

Proper movement of the joints that make up your jaw depends on the health and alignment of a shock-absorbing disc that separates the bones.

You may develop a TMJ disorder if this disc is damaged or misaligned. Arthritis and joint damage from trauma or an injury may also lead to a TMJ disorder.

However, in many cases, the exact cause of the chronic pain condition is unknown.

How is TMJ disorder treated?

Seattle Chiropractic Spine & Injury Center adjusts your TMJ using the Activator Method®, which is an innovative chiropractic technique that involves the use of an Activator device that applies gentle force to the joint to improve mobility.

Seattle Chiropractic Spine & Injury Center also performs muscle balancing techniques to allow proper TMJ tracking and motion to alleviate your pain and symptoms.

To improve joint health and restore function, Seattle Chiropractic Spine & Injury Center recommends a series of treatments based on your specific needs. Most people experiencing TMJ require 8-14 treatments.

Seattle Chiropractic Spine & Injury Center also works with a TMJ specialist and makes referrals for further assessment when needed.

For drug-free relief from your TMJ disorder symptoms, call Seattle Chiropractic Spine & Injury Center or request an appointment online today.