TMJ Treatment in Austin
Understanding TMJ Disorder
Dr. James Lee of Family Wellness Center is trained in the detection and correction of bone misalignments and TMJ disorder. The examination for TMJ helps determine the severity of the disorder and its lack of mobility. TMJ disorders have various causes. Misaligned or missing teeth can force the bone out of its proper position. Trauma from a fall or car crash can do the same thing. Whiplash is a very common cause of TMJ. Many times, stress results in grinding of the teeth or clenching of the jaw. This can overstrain the muscles and cause serious pain. That pain can flow throughout your face, neck, and head, causing various symptoms and discomfort.
How the TMJ Joint Works
The TMJ joint is a hinge that connects the mandible with the skull and is the most used joint in the body. This joint allows us to chew, speak, and swallow. The jaw (mandible) allows the lower part to open, while the cervical spine allows the top to move. This means that your head has to tilt back and the cervical spine needs to go into extension for the TMJ to function properly.
When someone is suffering from TMJ for a long period of time, the surrounding tendons and muscles become inflamed, and the pain can be felt in front of the ear. Usually, the longer one waits to see a chiropractor for treatment, the longer the recovery time will be. Dr. James Lee’s test consists of gently examining the joint to see if the opening and closing of the jaw is symmetric, and to check for any grinding or crunching sound.NEW PRACTICE MEMBERS
Chiropractic Treatment for TMJ
Chiropractic treatment is very effective for patients with TMJ.
Treatment plans will include chiropractic adjustments of the upper neck and/or jaw area. Depending on the severity of the problem, patients may see immediate relief or may need a series of adjustments over time to see results. In many cases, chiropractic care is proven to be more effective than drugs or medicines. Not only is it more effective, it helps patients through care that is gentler, more affordable, and does not include the potential for negative side effects in the future.
Dr. James Lee of Family Wellness Center believes that since chiropractic care is effective with disorders which are mechanical in nature, it is very effective with TMJ. Not only is chiropractic effective, it is often preferable when other options are more closely examined.
Schedule Your Appointment
Relieve jaw pain, improve function, and restore comfort with gentle chiropractic care. Contact Family Wellness Center today to schedule an appointment and begin your personalized TMJ treatment plan.
