What is TMJ?
If you have it you already know! If you don’t have it, you will understand why the name is shortened from Temporomandibular Joint Disorder to just TMJ!
The TMJ is the hinge-like joint that makes your jaw open and close. If you have pain when chewing, popping, clicking, and trouble with your jaw getting stuck, you may have TMJ.
Causes of TMJ can vary from dental issues and injuries like whiplash, to clenching the jaw during sleep or when stressed.
Acupuncture and cupping can help.
Tiny needles inserted into the sore muscles really ease the pain quickly. Don’t worry, it really isn’t painful to have acupuncture. The most you will feel is a slight pinch on insertion. Acupuncture is very relaxing, easing stress and helping you to sleep more deeply, so it may help with night time clenching and grinding as well.
When people come in with TMJ I also check them for neck and shoulder tension and treat those issues. Everything is connected, so loosening up tight muscles in the neck can help to release jaw pain.
If you’re nervous about needles, I also offer cupping therapy. Facial cupping therapy can be done for cosmetic reasons, but I can also use it to relieve TMJ. The cups I use on the face are different from the ones that leave those big marks on people’s backs, so don’t worry, you won’t have those big cupping circles on your face.
If you have TMJ, look up an acupuncturist today!