Mouth breathing can cause a variety of health problems, including Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ). The muscular imbalances that occur from mouth breathing can lead to TMJ and all its associated symptoms. Dr. Kelley Mingus of Bend, Oregon is an expert in helping those who suffer from TMJ.
Overview of Mouth Breathing
Mouth breathing happens when the airways are compromised and the body can’t get enough oxygen through the nose. For instance, allergies, nasal congestion, enlarged adenoids and tonsils, and even sleep apnea can all cause mouth-breathing. Unfortunately, this causes a change in our normal breathing pattern which can lead to a myriad of other health problems.
The Connection Between Mouth Breathing and TMJ
When we nose breathe, our entire body is balanced and functions optimally. When we mouth breathe however, our muscles become imbalanced. Our head moves to the front of our body, causing our cervical and thoracic spines to be overextended, and our pelvic region to be pulled into an anterior tilt. This causes tightening and shortening of our neck, jaw and other muscles which can then lead to TMJ.
Diagnosing TMJ
Taking the first steps to address the problem should begin with understanding the symptoms and getting a diagnosis of TMJ. Common symptoms of TMJ include jaw pain, toothache, earache, headache, neck pain, shoulder pain, dizziness, and even noise in the joint when chewing or when opening or closing the mouth. Once diagnosed, Dr. Mingus can work with patients to develop a treatment plan to reduce the symptoms and help alleviate any muscular imbalances.
Treatment of TMJ with Dr. Kelley Mingus in Bend
Once TMJ is diagnosed, it is important to address the underlying causes. Dr. Kelley Mingus of Bend, Oregon has the experience necessary to help those who suffer from TMJ and help them find lasting relief. Dr. Mingus uses a customized approach to treat the individual patient, including:
- Therapeutic Exercises: Dr. Mingus believes in the power of therapeutic exercises to correct imbalances and restore normal function to the area around the TMJ joint. By moving the jaw in different ways and stretching the muscles of the head and neck, it is possible to correct imbalances and reduce pain.
- Soft Tissue Work: Dr. Mingus uses a massage technique called myofascial release to help loosen chronically tight muscles that are often found when dealing with TMJ. This technique helps to break up adhesions in the tissues and ultimately reduces pain and improves overall function.
- Mobilization: Dr. Mingus also employs a joint mobilization technique to help address any bony alignment and mobility issues around the joint. This can be effective at reducing pain and improving movement of the jaw.
- Education and Empowerment: Finally, Dr. Mingus takes the time to educate her patients on the underlying cause of their TMJ and what they can do to help prevent future flareups. Study her exercises, encouragement of proper posture, and the use of self-massage techniques can help empower patients to take charge of their own health.
Conclusion
In order for the treatment of TMJ to be effective, it is essential to address the underlying cause of the disorder. Dr. Kelley Mingus of Bend, Oregon has the experience and knowledge necessary to help those who suffer from TMJ. Through a customized approach that involves therapeutic exercises, soft tissue work, joint mobilization, and education, Dr. Mingus can help alleviate TMJ symptoms and improve overall function and health.
