Do you suffer from frequent migraines? If so, have you considered the possibility that your jaw alignment might be contributing to the problem? TMJ, or temporomandibular joint dysfunction, can sometimes cause migraines or make them worse. Dr. Kelley Mingus and her team in Bend, Oregon, have the expertise needed to diagnose and treat TMJ-related migraines.
What Is TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint is the hinge-like joint that connects the lower jawbone to the skull. It allows for a wide range of movement, including opening and closing the mouth, chewing, and speaking. When the muscles around the TMJ become strained or inflamed, it can cause discomfort and a range of symptoms, including migraines.
Common Symptoms of TMJ
There are many symptoms of TMJ, and they can vary from person to person. Some people may have mild symptoms that they can ignore, while others may experience a range of severe symptoms. Some common symptoms of TMJ include:
- Mild to severe pain in the jaw, neck, or face
- Popping or clicking sounds when you open and close your mouth
- Stiffness in the jaw
- Locking of the jaw joint
- Pain in the ear or tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Muscle spasms in the face or neck
- Migraine headaches
How Are Migraines Related to TMJ?
The link between TMJ and migraines is still not well understood, but there are some theories to explain it. One theory is that the stress placed on the muscles of the jaw joint due to misalignment can lead to tension headaches. This type of headache is often experienced by people with TMJ, and the headache can be severe enough to be classified as a migraine.
Another theory is that the muscles of the jaw joint are close to the trigeminal nerve, which is a major nerve that supplies much of the sensation to the face and head. If the jaw joint is misaligned or the muscles around it are strained or inflamed, it could irritate the trigeminal nerve, triggering migraine symptoms.
Diagnosis and Treatment of TMJ-Related Migraines
To diagnose TMJ-related migraines, Dr. Kelley Mingus will start by performing a thorough evaluation of your jaw, neck, and head. This will include a detailed physical examination of the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. Depending on your symptoms and medical history, she may also order a set of dental x-rays so that she can better assess the alignment of the jaw.
Once Dr. Kelley has diagnosed your TMJ, she will develop a customized treatment plan to help alleviate your symptoms. This may include a combination of treatments, such as physical therapy, dental appliances, and medication. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to fix the underlying problem.
Conclusion
If you suffer from chronic migraines and think that they might be related to TMJ, you should schedule an appointment with Dr. Kelley Mingus and her team in Bend, Oregon. They are experienced in diagnosing and treating TMJ, and can help develop a treatment plan that will help you manage your symptoms. Don’t let your migraines get in the way of your life; call Dr. Kelley Mingus today to set up an appointment.
