TMJ Disorders
Jaw pain, clicking sounds, limited opening, and headaches originating from the jaw joint.
Overview
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull. TMJ disorders cause pain in the jaw joint and in the muscles that control jaw movement. Symptoms can include jaw pain or tenderness, clicking or popping sounds, difficulty chewing, and facial pain.
Common Causes
- Jaw injury or trauma
- Arthritis in the joint
- Grinding or clenching teeth (bruxism)
- Stress and muscle tension
- Dental malocclusion (bite problems)
- Postural imbalances of the neck and upper back
Symptoms
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds
- Difficulty or discomfort while chewing
- Locking of the jaw
- Headaches or earaches
- Facial pain or fatigue
Our Approach
Dr. Entezami has a focused clinical interest in TMJ disorders and takes a multidisciplinary approach. Treatment typically includes contemporary medical acupuncture targeting trigger points in the jaw and neck muscles, spinal manipulative therapy for the cervical spine, soft tissue therapy, and collaboration with dentists for bite correction when needed. Patient education around jaw habits and stress management is also integral to recovery.
Treatments Used
- Contemporary Medical Acupuncture
- Soft Tissue Therapy (Jaw & Neck Muscles)
- Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Therapy
- Spinal Manipulative Therapy (Cervical)
- Patient Education & Habit Modification
- Collaboration with Dentists