Are you struggling with facial pain, tension headaches, or jaw clicking and popping? These symptoms might indicate a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD). TMJ disorders are complex and often elusive conditions that cause chronic discomfort and other debilitating symptoms. Dr. Kelly Mingus in Bend, Oregon, specializes in addressing TMJ disorder with effective, non-invasive treatments to provide relief from facial pain, jaw pain, and other uncomfortable symptoms.
Understanding TMJ Disorder
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to the side of your skull. Like most joints in the body, it’s susceptible to injuries, inflammation, or stress. TMJ disorders are common in the general population and occur in people of all ages. Unfortunately, there is not a lot of information or research available to health care providers about TMJ disorders and their causes, which makes accurate diagnosis and successful treatment challenging.
TMJ disorders can present themselves in different ways. Common symptoms of a TMJ disorder include:
- Pain in the jaw, face, or ear
- Difficulty or discomfort when chewing or talking
- Certain noises or sensations, like clicking or popping, in the jaw
- Facial swelling and redness
- Frequent and intense headaches, similar to migraines
- Pain and tightness around the shoulders and neck
- Difficulty or inability to open the jaw wide
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms and think you might have a TMJ disorder, your first step should be to visit a health care provider. Dr. Mingus has specialized in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders for over 20 years and has a wealth of knowledge and experience in helping patients find relief from their symptoms.
Dr. Mingus’ TMJD Treatments
Dr. Mingus of Bend, Oregon, offers non-invasive treatments to provide relief from your TMJ disorder symptoms. First, he will perform an extensive evaluation to diagnose the underlying cause of your condition. Once the diagnosis is made, Dr. Mingus will create a comprehensive treatment plan based on your individual needs and goals.
One of the most effective treatments for TMJ disorders is myofascial release. This gentle and non-invasive therapy technique works by stretching and releasing the overactive muscles and connective tissues around the jaw. Following myofascial release, Dr. Mingus offers exercises and other at-home recommendations to ensure lasting relief.
In some cases, Dr. Mingus may also recommend other treatments, such as muscle release therapy, joint manipulation, and acupuncture. These treatments may help to reduce inflammation and improve overall muscle function. Additionally, Dr. Mingus offers a variety of relaxation techniques and stress-management strategies to help manage the condition.
Conclusion
Dr. Mingus’ TMJD treatments offer lasting relief from your facial pain, jaw discomfort, and other TMJ disorder symptoms. His non-invasive techniques and individualized treatment plans set him apart from other health care providers. If you think you may have a TMJ disorder, contact Dr. Mingus today to learn more about his effective treatments and find the relief you’ve been looking for.
