Suffer From TMJD?

The lower jaw hinges at the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), located in front of each ear. Top Medford chiropractor explains that these most complicated jointed in the body allow the lower jaw to open, close, rotate and slide. The TMJ’s are used over 5,000 times each day when we chew, swallow, yawn, smile, laugh, eat, and speak. The top row of teeth actually hinge when the skull rocks up and down on the top vertebrae in the neck.

What Causes TMJD Pain in Medford?

Moment of the left and right TMJ’s must be coordinated, working at the same time for the jaw to move properly. This movement is done by a complex set of muscled that are directly controlled by the body’s nervous system, specifically branches of the trigeminal nerve, which is one of the most powerful and complex nerves in the body. There is a delicate working relationship between the TMJ, the muscles that move the jaw, and the nerves that control these muscles. Therefore, normal structure of the TMJ system in Medford requires normal structure and function of both the temporomandibular joints and the Trigeminal nerve.

One of the primary causes of TMJ pain and disorders in Medford is damage to the joint itself. Direct or indirect trauma can affect the TMJ and clearly cause pain and dysfunction. Motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries and dental work have all been shown to trigger TMJ disorders. One of the most importantly overlooked cause of TMJ is trauma to the head and neck. TMJ dysfunction can appear suddenly after a trauma, or they may take years to develop. Call Rogue Valley Chiropractic Clinic today to schedule an appointment!