Living With TMJ Problems
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Jaw pain can make daily life surprisingly difficult. For some, it’s a dull ache near the jaw joint. For others, it’s sharp pain when chewing, talking, or even yawning. Many people with TMJ dysfunction also deal with clicking or popping sounds in the jaw, headaches, ear pain, or tightness in the face and neck.
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TMJ issues can make eating uncomfortable, disturb sleep, and even contribute to stress and tension headaches. At Spinal Health Group in Springfield, Dr. Josh understands how disruptive TMJ dysfunction can be and offers safe, effective care to help relieve pain and restore normal jaw function.
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What is TMJ Dysfunction?
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TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint—the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull. TMJ dysfunction (sometimes called TMD) occurs when the joint or surrounding muscles are irritated, inflamed, or misaligned.
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Common causes of TMJ problems include:
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Misalignment in the jaw or cervical spine
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Teeth grinding or clenching (often linked to stress)
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Injury or trauma to the jaw, head, or neck
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Arthritis in the jaw joint
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Muscle tension in the face, neck, or shoulders
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Poor posture that places strain on the jaw and upper spine
Because the TMJ is connected to the muscles and nerves in the head and neck, dysfunction often causes more than just jaw pain—it can lead to headaches, earaches, or even dizziness.
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How Spinal Health Group Helps With TMJ Dysfunction
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At Spinal Health Group, Dr. Josh takes a holistic approach to TMJ care, focusing on how the jaw, spine, and surrounding muscles all work together. The goal is not only to relieve jaw pain but also to address the underlying issues contributing to dysfunction.
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Your personalized care may include:
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Gentle chiropractic adjustments to improve alignment in the jaw and neck
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Soft tissue therapy to release tension in the facial and jaw muscles
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Dry needling or cupping to ease stubborn muscle tightness
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Corrective exercises to strengthen and support proper jaw movement
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Lifestyle guidance to reduce clenching, grinding, or posture-related stress
By combining these approaches, Dr. Josh helps patients in Springfield find real relief and restore healthy jaw function.
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Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Dysfunction
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Can chiropractic care really help with TMJ dysfunction?
Yes. Chiropractic care can improve jaw alignment, reduce muscle tension, and address contributing spinal issues that may be worsening your symptoms.
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Is jaw popping normal?
Occasional clicking or popping may not be serious, but when it’s paired with pain, stiffness, or headaches, it’s a sign that the joint needs attention.
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What if my TMJ pain comes from stress or teeth grinding?
Stress is a common factor in TMJ dysfunction. Chiropractic care, along with stress management and posture guidance, can help reduce the impact of clenching or grinding.
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How long will it take to feel relief?
Every case is different. Some patients notice improvement quickly, while others with long-term issues may require ongoing care. Dr. Josh will explain what to expect during your evaluation.
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Schedule Your First Appointment Today
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If you’re struggling with TMJ dysfunction in Springfield, VA, Spinal Health Group is here to help. Dr. Josh provides safe, effective care to relieve jaw pain, reduce headaches, and restore proper function.
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Call or text our office today to schedule your first appointment. You can also visit our New Patient page to get started.