TMJ Treatment in Winnipeg
If you grind your teeth and experience jaw discomfort, you’re not alone. In recent years, there has been a significant rise in the number of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) cases. This increase can be attributed to various factors, but one of the leading causes is the forward shift in the position of the head due to poor posture.
The Role of Posture
Ideally, the ears should align directly over the shoulders, the shoulders over the hips, the hips over the knees, and the knees over the ankles. When the head moves forward, it puts unnatural pressure on the muscles that connect the upper part of the back to the neck and jaw. This uneven pressure often leads to more stress on one side of the jaw than the other.
As a result, patients may experience increased teeth grinding, added pressure and tension, resulting in pain. Other symptoms might include
- Neck pain
- Headaches
- Difficulty opening and closing the jaw
- A clicking or grinding sound when moving the mouth
The Evaluation Process
Patients often report these symptoms after dental procedures that require keeping the jaw open for extended periods, causing additional stress on the jaw. At Lindenwoods Chiropractic, our chiropractors conduct thorough evaluations to examine the jaw movement and see if it’s shifting more on one side.
Like any other joint in the body, the more distorted the range of motion, the faster it breaks down, leading to more stress and pressure in that area.
Tailored Treatment Plans for TMJ
Our approach to treatment focuses on shifting the jaw back to its normal position to relieve pressure on the joints, ligaments, and muscles. Additionally, we recommend exercises to reposition the head over the shoulders.
Two of our favorite exercises are the “Wall Angel Exercise” and the “Titanic Postural Exercise.” These exercises are designed to move the head backwards while bringing the rib cage forward, helping to correct posture and alleviate TMJ symptoms.
Stop the Pop and Kick the Click
Put bothersome TMJ symptoms in the past. Contact Lindenwoods Chiropractic today to book an appointment.
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