Do you ever catch yourself wincing in pain while chewing or yawning? Does your jaw click, pop, or lock when you least expect it? TMJ issues can turn simple daily activities into sources of discomfort and frustration. If you are looking for real TMJ relief in Fort Wayne IN, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to just “live with it.”
In this post, we’ll explore common triggers of flare-ups, TMJ risk factors you may not be aware of, and how seeing a TMJ chiropractor in Fort Wayne, IN, could change your day-to-day life for the better.
What Is TMJ and Why Does It Flare Up?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a crucial joint that connects your jaw to the rest of your skull. When this joint becomes irritated or misaligned, it can cause a cascade of painful symptoms, including headaches, ear pain, and difficulty moving your jaw.
But what exactly causes these flare-ups? Let’s explore the most common TMJ risk factors and triggers.
Common Triggers of TMJ Flareups You Should Be Wary Of
1. Jaw Clenching and Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Stress can often make you clench your jaw without realizing it, particularly while sleeping. Over time, this puts excessive pressure on the TMJ, leading to inflammation and pain.
2. Poor Posture and Neck Misalignment
It may surprise you, but how you hold your head, and neck impacts your jaw’s alignment. Spending hours hunched over a computer or phone strains the upper cervical spine, potentially throwing your TMJ out of balance.
Dr. Emily Staples, a chiropractor for TMJ in Fort Wayne, IN, specializes in addressing upper neck misalignments that may be contributing to your jaw issues.
3. Injury to the Head or Neck
Past injuries, like whiplash from a car accident or a sports injury, can affect the alignment of your neck and jaw. These misalignments may not show up immediately but can lead to chronic TMJ issues over time.
4. Chewing Gum or Hard Foods
Consistently chewing gum or eating tough foods like raw vegetables, hard candies, or steaks can aggravate your TMJ, especially if your joint is already sensitive.
5. Hormonal Factors
Research suggests that TMJ disorders may be more common in women, particularly during periods of hormonal fluctuation. If you’ve noticed your symptoms worsen at certain times of the month, this could be a contributing factor.
6. Dental Issues
Uneven teeth, a misaligned bite, or poorly fitted dental work can place undue stress on the TMJ. These issues may cause your jaw to overcompensate, leading to flare-ups.
7. Emotional Stress
Ever notice how your jaw tightens when you’re under pressure? Emotional stress often leads to physical tension, and your TMJ can suffer as a result. Managing stress can help, but underlying structural imbalances may also need to be corrected.
8. Sleeping on Your Stomach
Stomach sleeping can twist your neck and jaw into unnatural positions for hours, increasing the risk of TMJ irritation. Transitioning to side or back sleeping can reduce strain on your jaw and upper cervical spine.
TMJ Risk Factors You Should Be Aware Of
Certain risk factors may increase the likelihood of experiencing TMJ problems. These include:
- Previous neck trauma
- Chronic stress or anxiety
- A history of poor posture
- Dental issues, including bruxism or a misaligned bite
- Occupational factors (e.g., spending long hours on the computer)
If any of these apply to you, you must take action to prevent further TMJ flare-ups. One key step you can do it to consult with our Fort Wayne IN chiropractic doctor to determine if your TMJ condition as something to do with your neck.
How an Upper Cervical Chiropractor Can Help TMJ Flare-Ups
You might wonder, “What does my neck have to do with my jaw pain?” The answer lies in the unique relationship between your upper cervical spine and the TMJ. When the atlas (the top bone of your spine) is out of alignment, it can throw off the entire balance of your head, neck, and jaw.
Dr. Emily Staples, an upper cervical chiropractor in Fort Wayne IN, takes a precise and gentle approach to correcting these misalignments. By restoring proper alignment, many patients experience long-lasting TMJ relief.
Steps to Find TMJ Relief in Fort Wayne, IN
If you’re ready to get serious about managing your TMJ pain, here’s a simple plan to guide you toward relief:
- Identify Your Triggers: Pay attention to the activities or habits that seem to worsen your symptoms.
- Make Lifestyle Changes: Try reducing gum chewing, improving posture, and managing stress.
- Consult an Upper Cervical Chiropractor: Book a consultation with Dr. Staples to assess whether a neck misalignment could be causing or aggravating your TMJ issues.
What Happens If You Don’t Address TMJ Flare-Ups?
Ignoring TMJ symptoms can lead to more than just chronic jaw pain. You may develop additional complications, such as:
- Frequent headaches or migraines
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Sleep disturbances
- Increased dental wear and tear
These issues can take a toll on your quality of life, but you don’t have to reach that point. With proper care, you can reduce flare-ups and reclaim your comfort.
Book a Consultation with a Chiropractor for TMJ in Fort Wayne IN
You don’t have to face TMJ pain alone. Dr. Emily Staples at Atlas Chiropractic has helped many patients in Fort Wayne find lasting relief through gentle, targeted upper cervical care. By addressing potential neck misalignments, she may be able to provide the solution you’ve been searching for.
Take the first step today. Book a consultation with Dr. Staples and discover how Fort Wayne IN chiropractic care can support your journey to a pain-free life.
Living with TMJ flare-ups doesn’t have to be your new normal. With the right approach, you can find relief and enjoy your favorite activities without constantly worrying about your jaw. Start by identifying your risk factors and consulting a chiropractor for TMJ in Fort Wayne, IN—your path to relief may be just a visit away.