At Valley Physical Medicine in Fayetteville, NC, we offer specialized treatment for TMJ disorders, providing relief from jaw pain, discomfort, and related symptoms. Our experienced team uses a combination of advanced techniques to help you achieve optimal jaw function and improve your quality of life.
Understanding TMJ Disorders
TMJ disorders affect the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jaw to the skull. These disorders can cause pain in your jaw joint and in the muscles that control jaw movement. The exact cause of a person’s TMJ disorder is often difficult to determine. Your pain may be due to a combination of factors, like genetics, arthritis, or jaw injury.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
Common symptoms include:
- Pain or tenderness in your jaw
- Pain in one or both of the temporomandibular joints
- Aching pain in and around your ear
- Difficulty chewing or pain while chewing
- Aching facial pain
- Locking of the joint, making it difficult to open or close your mouth
Our TMJ Treatment Services
We offer various treatments that are tailored to address the specific needs of each patient:
- Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen the jaw muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.
- Chiropractic Care: Adjustments to relieve pressure on the TMJ and enhance alignment.
- Massage Therapy: Techniques to relax the muscles around the jaw and reduce tension.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Guidance on habits that may alleviate TMJ symptoms, such as techniques to reduce clenching or teeth grinding.
Why Choose Valley Physical Medicine for TMJ Treatment?
- Expert Care: Our practitioners are skilled in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders, ensuring targeted and effective care.
- Holistic Approach: We consider all aspects of your health when creating a treatment plan, from physical symptoms to lifestyle factors.
- Customized Treatment Plans: Each patient receives a personalized treatment plan designed to meet their unique needs and goals.
Schedule Your TMJ Consultation Today
If you are experiencing symptoms of a TMJ disorder, don’t wait for your condition to worsen. Contact Valley Physical Medicine today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you live comfortably without jaw pain.
Call us at (910) 867-5500 or book an appointment online through our appointments page.
Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Disorder Treatment
What is TMJ disorder?
TMJ disorders involve dysfunction and pain in the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jaw to the side of your skull. These disorders can cause pain and difficulty in moving the jaw.
What are the symptoms of TMJ disorder?
Symptoms of TMJ disorder include:
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw, especially at the joint
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth
- Aching pain in and around your ear
- Difficulty chewing or discomfort while chewing
- Locking of the joint, making it difficult to open or close your mouth
What causes TMJ disorder?
The exact cause of TMJ disorder can be difficult to determine. It can arise from problems with the muscles of the jaw or with the parts of the joint itself. Contributing factors may include jaw injury, genetics, arthritis, or habits such as clenching or grinding teeth.
How do you diagnose TMJ disorder?
Diagnosis typically involves a thorough examination of the jaw and face, a review of your medical history, and possibly imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans to view the bones and soft tissues of the jaw.
What treatment options are available for TMJ disorder at Valley Physical Medicine?
Treatment options include:
- Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen jaw muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce symptoms.
- Chiropractic Care: Adjustments to alleviate pressure and improve alignment of the jaw.
- Massage Therapy: To relax the jaw muscles, increase circulation, and decrease pain.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Advice on reducing behaviors that exacerbate TMJ symptoms, such as teeth clenching.
Is TMJ disorder treatment painful?
Treatment for TMJ disorder should not be painful. Our goal is to relieve your discomfort and restore normal function without causing pain. Some treatments, like physical therapy, may involve movements that feel uncomfortable at first but are designed to lessen your symptoms.
How long does it take to see improvements from TMJ treatment?
The time to see improvements can vary based on the severity of your condition and how your body responds to treatment. Many patients notice improvements within a few weeks of starting treatment.
Can TMJ disorder be cured?
While there is no universal cure for TMJ disorder, effective management is possible. Many patients experience significant relief from symptoms through specialized treatment plans tailored to their specific condition.
How can I schedule an appointment for TMJ treatment?
You can schedule an appointment by calling our clinic at (910) 867-5500 or by booking online through our appointments page. We’re here to help you achieve relief from TMJ symptoms.