TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. This joint connects the jaw to the head and, therefore, is responsible for any type of jaw movement like talking and chewing. A problem with this joint can lead to pain in the jaw and face, popping and cracking sounds when using the jaw, and a range of other symptoms. Surprisingly to some, the neck may be the underlying source of TMJ pain. How so?
If one of the bones of the upper neck – the C1 or C2 vertebra – is out of alignment, it can be causing the problems associated with TMJ. In fact, TMJ and neck pain often exist together. However, a misalignment of the bones of the neck does not necessarily result in neck pain. Thus, an adjustment may do more good than one realizes.
To learn more about the connection between head and neck injuries and TMJ, download our complimentary e-book by clicking the image below.
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When one comes to visit us here at Precision Spine Specialists in Brentwood, Tennessee, we begin by getting a detailed patient history, including finding out about any previous head or neck trauma such as vehicle accidents, trip and fall injuries, sports injuries, or anything that may have jarred the head or over-extended the neck. These details are vital to one’s care even if the trauma occurred many years ago. We will then take a series of x-rays to help find the precise location of the misalignment and prepare a personalized plan to correct the problem.
We use a gentle method called NUCCA that does not require us ever to twist or crack the spine. Instead, a low force correction is administered to a specific area of the neck to help the neck bones realign naturally. Because of this, adjustments provide long-lasting benefits as the body does not resist the realignment. It also results in less discomfort – if any at all – after the adjustment. Additionally, upper cervical chiropractic often involves lower cost of care and a more precise correction of misalignments.
Schedule a consultation to learn if upper cervical chiropractic may be the solution to your TMJ pain.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Hall, call our Brentwood office at 615-488-7891 or just click the button below.
If you are outside of the local area, you can find an Upper Cervical Doctor near you at www.uppercervicalawareness.com
