TMJ Treatment
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders affect the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, often leading to pain, tension, and difficulty with normal jaw movement. These conditions can also contribute to headaches, neck pain, and facial discomfort.
Dr. Joel Ardner provides evaluation and treatment for TMJ-related conditions with a focus on reducing muscle tension, improving joint function, and restoring comfortable movement.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint connects the jaw to the skull and plays an important role in everyday activities such as speaking, chewing, and yawning.
TMJ disorders may develop when there is irritation of the joint, dysfunction in movement, or excessive tension in the surrounding muscles.
Common Symptoms
TMJ-related conditions can present in a variety of ways, including:
Jaw pain or tenderness
Clicking or popping with movement
Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
Facial pain or tightness
Headaches, especially near the temples
Ear discomfort or pressure
Neck and shoulder tension
Symptoms may vary depending on the underlying cause.
Common Causes
TMJ disorders are often influenced by multiple factors, including:
Jaw clenching or teeth grinding (bruxism)
Muscle tension in the jaw and neck
Joint irritation or dysfunction
Stress-related tension
Postural issues affecting the neck and jaw
In many cases, TMJ symptoms are related to both joint and muscular factors.
What to Expect
Evaluation includes a review of symptoms and examination of jaw movement, muscle tension, and related structures in the neck and upper body.
This helps identify whether the symptoms are primarily joint-related, muscular, or a combination of both.
Treatment for TMJ
Treatment focuses on improving jaw function and reducing muscle tension.
Depending on the condition, care may include:
Gentle joint mobilization techniques
Soft tissue treatment for jaw and neck muscles
Dry needling for trigger points
Postural and movement recommendations
Coordination with dental providers when appropriate
Care is tailored to the individual based on their symptoms and contributing factors.
TMJ and Neck Pain
The jaw and neck are closely connected. Many patients with TMJ symptoms also experience neck pain or headaches.
Addressing both the jaw and cervical spine can help improve overall outcomes and reduce recurring symptoms.
👉 Learn more about neck pain treatment
Collaboration with Dental Providers
Dr. Ardner frequently works alongside dentists and other healthcare providers when managing TMJ-related conditions. In some cases, coordinated care may be recommended to address both the joint and dental factors contributing to symptoms.
When to Seek Evaluation
You should consider scheduling an evaluation if you experience:
Persistent jaw pain
Clicking or locking of the jaw
Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
Headaches associated with jaw movement
Ongoing facial or neck tension
Early evaluation can help prevent symptoms from becoming more persistent.
About Dr. Joel Ardner
Dr. Joel Ardner provides treatment for TMJ-related conditions using a combination of manual therapy, dry needling, and movement-based strategies. Care is focused on reducing pain, improving function, and helping patients return to comfortable daily activity.
Patients are seen at Fabrizio Chiropractic & Physical Rehabilitation.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or related symptoms, an evaluation may help determine the cause and guide appropriate treatment.