Pain in the Neck, Jaw, or Shoulders May Be TMJ
Have you noticed unexplained pain in your jaw or neck? Do you have frequent headaches? Do you find yourself clenching your teeth? Is it difficult to open your mouth to take a big bite of your favorite sandwich? Has even the simple act of yawning at the end of a long day been causing you pain? Do any of these issues get worse when you’re under high levels of stress? If you answered yes to any of these questions, please schedule a consultation with Dr. David M. Rizk. You may be experiencing TMJ or temporomandibular joint disorder.
Though the cause of TMJ isn’t always known, injury, imbalance, or disease may play a part. Whatever the reason, this tiny joint in front of your ear can cause a wide range of problems, including headaches, ringing in your ears, and blurred vision. You may have popping noises in your jaw and a bite that’s out of line. TMJ may also cause a range of aches and pains in your ears, jaw, neck, and shoulders. Any one of these symptoms can negatively impact your day, leaving you feeling less than your best.
Dr. Rizk will evaluate your TMJ issues to determine the best course of action. We use the latest technology, called a T-Scan Digital Occlusal Analysis System, to measure not only the location points where your bite isn’t lining up but also the force of the bite at those contact points and the timing of the impact. These are quantifiable data points that can help us analyze your bite issues in ways that biting on old-school articulating paper never could.
Options for treatment include neuromuscular treatment to help relax your jaw muscles or centric relation to discover the most natural position for your jaw. Treatment may be delivered using a K7 system to discover precisely where your jaw and muscles should be when resting normally. Our TENS unit will deliver low-level electrical pulses, allowing your jaw muscles to relax into their most natural position. We may give you a splint or mouthguard to wear to sleep, promoting proper alignment. We also offer physical therapy to encourage increased circulation, flexibility, and range of motion.
Whether we choose one treatment option or a combination, Dr. Rizk and his team are committed to working to rid you of TMJ pain so every day can be your best day.
