Are you suffering from both temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) and back pain? If yes, then it’s high time you understood the intricate details of their connection. Here at Bend Headache Center, we witness countless patients who complain about these two ailments co-existing. But what’s the connection between TMJ and back pain? Let’s delve further into this topic.
Understanding TMJ
TMJ refers to the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. About 10 million people in the U.S. are affected by TMD or temporomandibular disorders. These disorders can manifest as jaw pain, difficulty in moving the jaw, and even as ear pain.
Signs of TMJ Disorders
- Facial pain
- Problems when eating, talking, or yawning
- Unexplained ear pain
- Migraines
Linking TMJ and Back Pain
It may be surprising for some, but there is a clear connection between TMJ and back pain. This connection lies in your posture. Poor posture resulting from a misaligned jaw can lead to various musculoskeletal problems, including back pain.
Mechanism Behind the Relation
Every part of your body is interconnected. A problem in one part can lead to discomfort or pain in another. This applies to the relation between TMJ and back pain. When a TMJ disorder affects your jaw alignment, it alters your posture too. This posture imbalance can result in muscle strains, leading to back pain.
Addressing TMJ and Back Pain
Considering the connection between TMJ and back pain, one needs to approach them together. At Bend Headache Center, we offer non-surgical treatments that aim to correct the cause of these issues rather than simply alleviating the symptoms.
Effective Treatments at Bend Headache Center
- Oral Appliance Therapy
- Physical Therapy
- Ergonomic Evaluation
- Nutritional Assessment
These improved treatment options focus on enhancing jaw movement and reducing the overall impact of TMD on the jaw, neck, head, and posture. Treating TMJ effectively can, therefore, help alleviate the associated back pain.
Conclusion
Understanding the connection between TMJ and back pain is an essential step in choosing an effective treatment plan. At Bend Headache Center, we provide innovative, non-invasive treatments that not only temporarily relieve your symptoms but also target the root cause of your problem, providing lasting relief. Remember, your health is a comprehensive picture, and all your body parts are interconnected. Paying attention to all aspects, including TMJ and back pain, can significantly improve your overall health and quality of life.
