Accupuncture Tmj

Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ) is a prevalent disorder so harm the joints of the upper and lower jaw. It may suggest pain and discomfort in the jaw joints, as favorably as larger amount of symptoms such as headaches, ringing in the ears, and neck and shoulder pain. The pain is often so intense that it limits food options and adversely affects top notch of life. Though determining the trigger of the pain is often pretty straight forward, treating and managing the pain can be more challenging.Accupuncture Tmj

There are a number of muscles and tendons that help support the TMJ. We use them consciously during the day when we speak, chew, yawn, etc. and they often get used subconsciously during the night as well. This usually presents as grinding of the teeth, often a symptom of stress or anxiety, and one of the primary causes of TMJ dysfunction. Other causes of TMJ dysfunction include structural issues within the joints, muscle tension and pain, arthritis, and hypermobility. Any of these conditions may put excessive strain and pressure on the muscles and tendons of the joint, as well as disrupt the natural conformation of the bite. Either of these situations may result in pain of the TMJ or surrounding area.

TMJ dysfunction is most commonly diagnosed by a dentist or doctor doing a physical exam. Clinical presentation of the joint and surrounding muscles and tendons, as well as symptoms described by the patient are usually enough to diagnose the condition. Treatment is generally approached in two ways: use of a plastic Splint that is fitted for either the upper or lower teeth and worn during the day or night, and use of analgesics (pain medication). In more severe cases where muscle tension is the primary cause of discomfort, muscle relaxants may be prescribed. A number of patients do experience some relief of their symptoms when these two modalities are used, however, further relief and resolution of symptoms can usually be accomplished with acupuncture. Accupuncture Tmj

Acupuncture has been shown to be a highly effective method for reducing the pain of this disorder as well as restoring effective joint function. It can help to relax the muscles surrounding the joints, as well as treat the underlying stress that often accompanies these overworked muscles. One of the great benefits of acupuncture is that it can be used on its own or in conjunction with western methods of treatment/management. A complimentary approach is often the best choice for optimizing pain control as well as addressing many other aspects of the condition.Accupuncture Tmj

When pursing treatment with acupuncture, a complete health assessment is performed to determine the underlying reason for the condition. This assessment is done from an eastern medicine perspective, to make a diagnosis based on the concepts of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The result of the assessment determines how each individual case will be treated. Just as western medicine will diagnose different reasons for the TMJ dysfunction, TCM will also diagnose a particular pattern or differentiation for each patient. One of the general premises of TCM is that where there is pain, there is obstruction. This can be an obstruction of the flow of vital energy called Qi, poor circulation of blood, poor supply of oxygen, etc. The goal of treatment is to remove the obstruction, improve free flow of qi and blood, and thus relieve the pain. This is accomplished by using special acupoints on the face, ear, and other areas of the body. Stop suffering from TMJ anymore. Get your Accupuncture Tmj ebook and live your life again!