Causes of TMJ
According to one researcher, "[Up to] 78% of the general public have some amount of TMJ dysfunction. This condition can begin during the birth process .... One of the primary causes can be poor nutrition." Indeed, TMJ symptoms are found in young children. Other causes of TMJ Syndrome are poor posture, spinal or skull subluxations, accidents and trauma (even from childhood). For example, a child may fall on his/her sacrum and in time, through the adaptive body mechanisms, the pelvic imbalance can affect the TMJ, head and neck.
The Chiropractic Approach
Because spine and TMJ problems are often found together, many TMJ sufferers benefit from chiropractic care. Chiropractic, by relieving pressure on the spine and cranial bones, may correct or relieve a TMJ problem. Conversely, an unhealthy skull/jaw alignment can put great stress upon the spinal column. There are documented cases of dental problems that, once corrected, have enabled chiropractic patients to better hold their spinal adjustments.
Certain chiropractic and body alignment techniques have been developed that analyze skull/jaw/spinal structural relationships. These techniques have benefited patients suffering from the hidden distortions that sometimes arise within us. All TMJ sufferers need a chiropractic checkup. Anyone who has been to the dentist should follow up that visit with a quick stop at their chiropractor.
