Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Overview

The TMJ (joints of the jaw) are very unique joints in our body.  There is a disc that is within the joint and this disc glides through the joint with movement.  The motion of the joint is also unique in that there is a distinct pivot motion and also a significant gliding motion that occurs when the jaw is opened and closed.  There are eight major muscles (four on each side) that effect jaw motion.  As with most joints of the body, there is a joint capsule surrounding the joint and there may be arthritis within the joint.  If there are any issues with the muscles, the disc, the cartilage surfaces of the joint, and/or the bone that creates the joint, then symptoms may be present.

Jaw pain, clicking, popping, crepitus and headaches are common symptoms of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder...often called "TMJ Disorder" or "TMD" for short.  It can often be a debilitating condition that may effect peoples' nutrition, their desire and ability to communicate and their mental health.  It may be a chronic condition that has been present for years or may be a new condition.  Auto accidents or getting hit in the face may cause symptoms.  The cause of jaw pain may be a result of something as simple as holding the mouth wide open for an extended time while at a dental appointment.

Common medical treatment for TMD is to do nothing or take a "wait and see" approach.  Pain meds may be prescribed; occasionally splints or orthotics are prescribed.  In severe cases, surgery is the treatment of choice with mixed results often being reported.

The jaw is a sensitive area that we rely heavily upon for everyday living yet often don't think about unless there is a problem.  Even when there is a problem that is being experienced, the sensitive nature of the area causes us to shy away from invasive procedures.

So what is between "Do nothing" and take drugs or have surgery?

Your doctors at Gallatin Valley Chiropractic have conservative and effective treatment options for TMD that are relatively non-invasive. Often, the first step in addressing TMD is to provide manual therapy to the muscles that control the TMJ.  This alone may provide the relief that many people are seeking.  Two of the muscles (the masseter and the temporalis muscles) may be worked on externally; however, two of the muscles are accessed intraorally (through the mouth).  This is the "relative" part of non-invasive...no more invasive than dental work.  While the intraoral work may be uncomfortable it is frequently very effective.  Studies have shown significant effectiveness for this type of treatment with 2 treatments per week over 5 weeks.

The next step in conservative care for TMD, usually following a few treatments of intraoral manual therapy, is joint mobilization and/or manipulation.  This treatment addresses joint capsule issues, disc issues and any restrictions to movement within the jaw.

Finally, addressing nutrition and/or supplementation can help with pain, boney growth and arthritic types of TMD.

If you are experiencing headaches, jaw pain, clicking or popping, call 406-551-2177 to set up an appointment with one of the doctors at Gallatin Valley Chiropractic.