Understanding TMJ Disorder: Insights and Natural Solutions
Living with TMJ disorder can be a daily struggle, affecting even the simplest activities such as speaking, eating, and yawning. Persistent pain, distracting clicking sounds, and difficulty opening the mouth can significantly impact the quality of life.
While conventional treatments like surgery and medication are available, many people seek natural solutions for relief. At Internal Healing and Wellness, we offer a functional medicine approach to manage TMJ disorders holistically.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
Individuals with TMJ disorders may experience diverse symptoms, varying in severity and duration. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and may be temporary or chronic. Some individuals might not experience pain or significant loss of function despite having TMJ issues. Common signs include:
- Dizziness
- Jaw pain and stiffness
- Sleep disturbances
- Headaches and migraines
- Muscle tension or spasms
- Problems chewing normally
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Facial and neck pain
- Jaw locking (either open or closed)
- Malocclusion (changes in the bite)
- Clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw
Identifying the Causes of TMJ
TMJ disorder, or temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), encompasses a group of conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint and surrounding muscles. This joint connects the jawbone to the skull near the temples and plays a vital role in chewing, talking, and yawning.
Disruptions in its function can lead to a variety of symptoms, necessitating a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment. Several factors contribute to the development of TMJ disorder include:
Physical Stressors
- Poor posture, especially in the neck and upper back
- Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching)
- Physical injuries from falls, car accidents, sports, or abuse
- Sleep disorders and excessive gum chewing
- Orthodontic complications and oral piercings
Biochemical Stressors
Toxins, or biochemical stressors, can be either natural or synthetic. Some toxins associated with Sjögren Syndrome are:
- Nutritional deficiencies in magnesium, calcium, and vitamin D
- Certain medications that cause grinding or clenching
- Hormonal changes, particularly in women
- High sugar intake and food allergies
- Smoking and alcohol consumption, which increase inflammation and muscle tension
Emotional Stressors
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Relationship issues and financial stress
- Major life changes causing feelings of overwhelm
- Anxiety or depression
- Pent-up anger and grief
Diagnosing TMJ Disorder
Diagnosis of TMJ disorders typically involves a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider, often a dentist or oral and maxillofacial specialist. The diagnostic process includes:
- Medical and Dental History: A detailed history of symptoms, duration, and factors affecting them, along with any past injuries or treatments.
- Physical Examination: Assessment of jaw movement, range of motion, and presence of clicking or popping sounds, along with muscle tenderness.
- Bite Assessment: Evaluation of how the upper and lower teeth fit together to identify any misalignments contributing to TMJ symptoms.
- Imaging: Advanced imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans to get a detailed view of the TMJ and surrounding structures.
Conventional Medical Approach to TMJ Disorder
Traditional healthcare approaches to TMJ disorder focus on pain relief, muscle relaxation, and improving sleep. Common treatments include:
- Medications: Pain relievers, muscle relaxants, anti-anxiety drugs, corticosteroids, tricyclic antidepressants, and Botox injections to manage symptoms.
- Physical Therapy: Jaw exercises and posture training.
- Oral Appliances: Mouthguards to prevent grinding and clenching.
In severe cases, jaw surgery might be recommended, although it involves risks and a lengthy recovery process. While many of these treatments provide relief in the moment, they don’t address the root cause, which can lead to a relapse or ongoing treatments that never truly cure TMJ.
The Functional Medicine Approach to TMJ Disorder
At Internal Healing and Wellness, we delve deeper to address the root causes of TMJ disorder, rather than just treating the symptoms. Our approach includes:
Comprehensive Testing
We start with comprehensive testing to identify inflammation sources and overall joint health. These tests may include chiropractic exams, diagnostic imaging, food allergy testing, hormone panels, and gut health evaluations.
Lifestyle Changes & Complementary Therapies
Incorporating lifestyle changes and complementary therapies can further alleviate TMJ symptoms. Options include chiropractic care, orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT), acupuncture, and maintaining overall fitness and a healthy BMI.
Dietary Changes
A personalized nutrition plan is crucial for managing TMJ disorders. General dietary recommendations include reducing sugar and processed foods, opting for soft, nutrient-dense foods, following a gluten-free, mostly grain-free diet, avoiding cow's milk dairy products and high omega-6 vegetable oils, and incorporating omega-3-rich foods and antioxidants.
Supplements
In addition to dietary adjustments, specific supplements can aid in managing TMJ symptoms. These may include resveratrol, Japanese knotweed, turmeric, ashwagandha, kava, and CBD.
Finding Relief from TMJ Disorder: Your Journey Starts Here
At Internal Healing and Wellness, we believe in a strong patient-practitioner partnership. You play a crucial role in your healing process, and we are here to guide, support, and empower you every step of the way. By working together to uncover the root causes of your TMJ disorder and develop a personalized treatment plan, we can help you achieve lasting relief and improved overall health.
Our team of experienced functional medicine practitioners will take the time to listen to your story, understand your unique challenges, and develop a comprehensive plan that addresses your specific needs. We will work with you to implement diet and lifestyle changes, incorporate targeted supplements and botanicals, and address any underlying imbalances or triggers that may be contributing to your symptoms.
Take the First Step Toward Healing with Internal Healing and Wellness
If you're ready to take control of your health and find lasting relief from TMJ disorder, we invite you to schedule a consultation with one of our functional medicine practitioners at Internal Healing and Wellness.
During your consultation, you'll have the opportunity to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and health goals with a compassionate and knowledgeable practitioner. Together, we’ll develop a personalized plan to uncover the root causes of your condition and begin your journey toward optimal wellness.
Don't wait another day to start your journey toward better health. Contact us now to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward finding lasting relief from TMJ disorder.
Contact Us
Start Your Holistic Wellness Journey Today
In search of a functional medicine doctor in The Woodlands? Dr. Khan and his experienced team are at your service, ready to help you make life-changing strides toward your health and wellness goals.
Contact Info
Our Location
255 Ed English Dr
Suite A
Shenandoah, TX 77385
Our Schedule
9AM-5PM Monday - Friday
Get In Touch
For functional medicine inquiries, contact our experienced functional medicine doctors. We take a holistic approach to improving health and well-being.