The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull. It allows you to talk, chew, and yawn. But when this joint becomes inflamed, misaligned, or strained, it can cause:
Jaw clicking or popping
Pain around the ears or temples
Headaches
Tightness or locking in the jaw
Difficulty chewing
Many people don’t realize that TMJ pain is often linked to spinal misalignments, especially in the upper cervical spine (neck region). When the vertebrae in your neck are out of alignment, it can disrupt the surrounding muscles and nerves that affect jaw movement and tension.
Poor posture, whiplash injuries, or even grinding your teeth can all contribute to spinal misalignment—leading to increased pressure and dysfunction in the TMJ.
Chiropractic care doesn’t just treat symptoms—it addresses the root cause. If your TMJ issues are related to spinal or muscular misalignment, a chiropractor can:
✅ Realign the cervical spine to relieve tension and nerve irritation
✅ Reduce muscle tightness in the jaw, neck, and shoulders
✅ Improve overall posture, which often contributes to TMJ strain
✅ Restore natural jaw movement without surgery or medication
Apply warm compresses to relax tight jaw muscles
Avoid chewing gum or hard foods
Practice good posture throughout the day
Perform gentle jaw stretches as recommended by your chiropractor
TMJ dysfunction can worsen over time if left untreated. If you’ve tried everything and still deal with chronic jaw pain, it might be time to consider chiropractic care.
