Temporomandibular joint disorder, commonly called TMJ, affects the joint connecting the jawbone to the skull and can cause jaw pain or tenderness, clicking or popping sounds, limited range of motion or jaw locking, headaches, ear pain or ringing, neck and shoulder pain, and difficulty opening or closing the mouth. TMJ symptoms can be triggered by stress, jaw misalignment, grinding teeth, or trauma to the jaw area.
Chiropractic care for TMJ may use neurological adjustments to improve spinal alignment and relieve muscle tension around the jaw. Myofascial release and trigger point therapy can ease muscle tightness and restore jaw movement. By addressing musculoskeletal imbalances and promoting optimal nervous system function, chiropractic treatment can help manage TMJ symptoms and reduce pain.