While you might not think about your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) often or much less even know what they are, you use them every day for various purposes. These joints act as a hinge. They connect your jaw to the temporal bones in your skull that are right in front of your ears. These joints are what allow you to open and close your jaw and move it side to side. That means your temporomandibular joints are what allow you to speak, chew, swallow, and more.
However, issues can arise in these joints and the muscles around them, causing significant pain and a reduction in your range of motion. TMJ disorders cause pain in your jaw joints and jaw muscles, which control the movement of your jaw. As you can imagine, temporomandibular disorders (TMD) can cause discomfort and affect your quality of life.
TMJ disorders are complicated. Healthcare experts aren’t quite sure what causes them. A combination of different factors (genetics, arthritis, injury, etc.) can cause TMD, but it’s difficult to know for sure. Regardless, it’s essential to know that TMJ pain is often temporary and can easily be relieved.
The expert pain management doctors at Texas Partners Healthcare Group have years of experience treating a plethora of chronic pain conditions. We have the tools and knowledge necessary to help you find pain relief from your TMJ disorder.
The symptoms of TMJ disorders vary, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain. This pain can be temporary or last for months or even years. These disorders can affect one or both sides of your face. Regardless, there are some key symptoms to be aware of to catch TMD early.
The exact cause of TMD is hard to determine. Often, the pain patients experience is a combination of a host of factors. However, some factors that could increase your jaw pain or lead to TMJ disorders include:
Fortunately, the pain and discomfort that comes with TMJ disorders is often temporary and easy to fix. While this pain can be extremely uncomfortable and even affect how you speak and eat, the pain management doctors at Texas Partners Healthcare Group have years of experience treating a host of chronic pain conditions. Here, we will be able to craft a treatment plan that treats your TMJ disorder and lets you live comfortably again. Do not hesitate to contact TXP if you are experiencing TMJ pain.