Help for TMJ: What You Can Do to Find Relief

Ever notice a popping or clicking sound when you yawn, chew, or speak? Maybe your jaw sometimes feels tight, sore, or even locks up. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction can turn everyday activities—like enjoying a meal or having a conversation—into a painful challenge.

What Is TMJ Dysfunction?

TMJ dysfunction refers to issues affecting the jaw joint, leading to pain, tension, and movement restrictions. Dr. Marie explains, “TMJ dysfunction is often referred for patients that have jaw tension and jaw problems. It varies, but you can have symptoms like a locked jaw, clicking when chewing, or difficulty eating hard foods or opening your mouth wide to eat an apple.”

Teeth grinding, poor posture,  nexk tensio, everday stress and dental work can all contribute to TMJ issues, making the jaw overwork and tighten over time. However, the right approach can help ease that tension and restore natural movement.

How Chiropractic Care & Other Methods May Help

Chiropractic care takes a whole-body approach to TMJ dysfunction by addressing tension in the jaw, neck, and shoulders. “We can look at how the jaw joint is diverting,” says Dr. Marie. “Often, it’s the accumulation of tension in the muscle that can compromise the way the jaw is opening.”

Through chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue work, and cranial techniques, we can help relieve muscle tightness and improve jaw movement. Many patients see improvement within just a few sessions, but ongoing self-care plays a big role in long-term relief. In addition to avoiding hard foods, jaw exercises are helpful. Dr. Marie sends patients home with some simple and gentle ones they can do.