Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) can cause persistent jaw pain, headaches, facial discomfort, and even neck and shoulder tension. Many people who struggle with TMJ seek relief beyond traditional dental treatments, wondering if chiropractic care and massage therapy can help. While these alternative therapies can provide some relief, understanding their role in TMJ treatment is essential.
At Bend Headache Center, Dr. Kelley Mingus specializes in non-surgical, long-lasting TMJ solutions and takes a comprehensive approach to jaw health. Let’s explore how chiropractic care and massage may fit into a TMJ treatment plan—and why a customized approach is key to lasting relief.
Understanding TMJ & How It Affects the Body
The temporomandibular joint connects the jawbone to the skull and plays a crucial role in speaking, chewing, and even breathing. When this joint becomes misaligned or overworked, it can lead to chronic pain, clicking or popping sounds, jaw stiffness, and headaches.
TMJ issues are often caused by bite misalignment, jaw clenching, stress, or muscle tension, meaning that treatment should address both the joint mechanics and the muscular imbalances that contribute to discomfort. This is where chiropractic care and massage therapy come in.
Can Chiropractic Care Help with TMJ?
Chiropractic care focuses on spinal alignment, joint function, and nervous system health. Since the jaw, neck, and spine are interconnected, some chiropractors may help TMJ sufferers by adjusting the cervical spine (neck) and jaw joint to relieve tension and improve overall alignment.
How Chiropractic Adjustments May Help:
- Realign the jaw & neck – Reducing strain on the temporomandibular joint
- Improve posture – Addressing forward head posture, which can contribute to TMJ tension
- Reduce nerve irritation – Decreasing nerve compression that may exacerbate TMJ symptoms
However, chiropractic care alone does not correct underlying bite misalignment or muscle imbalances. If you’re experiencing persistent TMJ issues, consulting with a specialist like Dr. Mingus is crucial to ensure a complete diagnosis and treatment plan.
Can Massage Therapy Relieve TMJ Pain?
Massage therapy can help reduce muscle tightness and improve circulation in areas affected by TMJ dysfunction, including the jaw, neck, shoulders, and face.
Types of Massage for TMJ Relief:
- Intraoral Massage – A specialized technique where a therapist gently massages muscles inside the mouth to relieve tension in the jaw
- Trigger Point Therapy – Focusing on tight, overworked muscles that contribute to jaw clenching and pain
- Myofascial Release – Stretching and loosening connective tissue to improve jaw mobility
- Neck & Shoulder Massage – Addressing tension in supporting muscles that may contribute to jaw discomfort
While massage can temporarily relieve pain, it does not correct misaligned bites, jaw dysfunction, or airway issues—which is why a comprehensive TMJ treatment approach is necessary.
Why a Customized TMJ Treatment Plan Matters
At Bend Headache Center, Dr. Kelley Mingus takes a whole-body approach to TMJ treatment. Instead of relying on temporary relief methods, he focuses on non-surgical, long-lasting solutions that address the root cause of your TMJ symptoms.
- Custom Oral Appliances – Gently repositioning the jaw for optimal function
- Neuromuscular Dentistry – Evaluating muscle function to correct imbalances
- Bite Realignment Treatments – Addressing structural misalignment
- Airway & Breathing Evaluations – Treating underlying breathing issues that impact jaw health
Chiropractic care and massage can be helpful complementary treatments in managing TMJ symptoms, but they should not replace a customized TMJ treatment plan that targets the structural and functional issues causing your discomfort.
Find Lasting TMJ Relief in Bend, Oregon
If you’re tired of dealing with jaw pain, headaches, and tension, it’s time to explore a treatment plan that works. Dr. Kelley Mingus specializes in non-invasive, lasting TMJ solutions that go beyond temporary fixes.
Schedule your consultation today! Let’s find the best solution for your TMJ pain—without surgery or unnecessary medications.
