Why Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) is Important in Upper Cervical Treatment

by Son PMR(Physical medicine & Rehabilitation ) & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul

1. The Relationship Between TMJ Disorder and the Upper Cervical Spine

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) is a condition that causes discomfort while chewing, clicking sounds when opening the mouth, headaches, and pain in the neck and shoulders. These issues are not solely due to problems within the jaw joint itself but are also deeply connected to the upper cervical spine (C1, C2) both anatomically and neurologically.

🔹 How the TMJ and Upper Cervical Spine Are Connected

✅ Anatomical Connection: The jaw muscles (masseter, temporalis, and pterygoid muscles) are functionally linked to the suboccipital muscles, which help maintain head and neck posture.
✅ Neurological Connection: The trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V), which controls jaw movement and sensation, is influenced by the alignment of the upper cervical spine. Misalignment can lead to nerve irritation, affecting TMJ function.
✅ Posture and TMJ Function: Conditions such as forward head posture (text neck) and cervical misalignment can alter jaw mechanics, increasing pressure and exacerbating TMJ disorders.

2. Why Upper Cervical Treatment is Crucial for TMJ Disorder

✅ Reduces Excess Pressure on the TMJ
Proper alignment of the upper cervical spine redistributes head weight evenly, reducing unnecessary strain on the jaw joint.

✅ Alleviates Nerve Irritation
Correcting cervical misalignment helps relieve irritation of the trigeminal nerve and surrounding neural pathways, potentially reducing TMJ-related pain.

✅ Relaxes Muscle Tension
A well-aligned upper cervical spine decreases excessive tension in the chewing muscles, such as the masseter, temporalis, and pterygoid muscles, leading to improved jaw movement.

✅ Improves Postural Stability
Proper cervical spine alignment stabilizes the head position, which not only benefits TMJ function but also enhances overall posture and spinal balance.

3. Research and Supporting Evidence

✅ Studies on TMJ and Upper Cervical Relationship

  • "Association Between Temporomandibular Disorders and Cervical Spine Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis" (J Oral Facial Pain Headache, 2021)
    → This study found a significant correlation between TMJ disorders and cervical misalignment, suggesting that upper cervical treatment can help improve TMJ function.

✅ Effects of Cervical Spine Treatment on TMJ Disorders

  • "Cervical Spine Dysfunction in Patients with Temporomandibular Disorders" (J Manipulative Physiol Ther, 2019)
    → Research indicates that patients with TMJ disorders often experience cervical misalignment and neck pain, and cervical treatment has been shown to reduce TMJ-related symptoms.

✅ Postural Influence on TMJ Health

  • "Postural Influence on Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: A Review" (Cranio, 2018)
    → This study emphasizes the role of head and cervical alignment in maintaining proper TMJ function, highlighting that poor posture, such as forward head posture, can aggravate TMJ disorders.

4. Conclusion

TMJ disorders should not be treated in isolation; instead, a comprehensive approach that considers the upper cervical spine is essential.
👉 Correcting cervical alignment can significantly contribute to improved TMJ function and overall health.

📌 This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Individual diagnosis and treatment may be required depending on each patient’s condition.

👍Consultation and Appointment Information

Son PMR & Chiropractic Clinic( 2nd floor, 229-1 Gucheonmyun-Ro, Gangdongu, Seoul, South Korea) 

by  Dr Son MD & DC 
Contact: 02-482-8875 in Seoul( +82-2-482-8875)

chson@daum.net


댓글

댓글 쓰기

이 블로그의 인기 게시물

 What is Central Sensitization? by Son PMR(Physical medicine & Rehabilitation ) & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul Central sensitization refers to a condition where the brain and spinal cord become abnormally sensitive to pain signals following an injury or inflammation. In simpler terms, the pathways that perceive pain become overly reactive, causing individuals to experience excessive pain from minor stimuli or persistent pain even after healing . Key Features of Central Sensitization Amplified pain responses (Allodynia) Pain is felt even with non-painful stimuli, such as light touch or gentle movement. Increased pain sensitivity (Hyperalgesia) Painful stimuli feel much more intense than usual. Persistent pain Pain can continue even after the original injury or inflammation has resolved. How Central Sensitization Develops Peripheral nerve injury or inflammation → Continuous transmission of pain signals to the spinal cord and brain → Hyperexcitab...
자세한 내용 보기
Why Is My Knee Swollen, and Why Does It Take So Long to Heal? by Son PMR(Physical medicine & Rehabilitation ) & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul – Understanding Knee Swelling and Recovery Strategies Many people have experienced knee swelling and discomfort at some point. At first glance, it may seem like a minor issue, but in reality, it often takes longer than expected to heal. In this article, we’ll explore the common causes of knee swelling , why recovery tends to take time , and what treatment options may help . 1. What Causes Knee Swelling? Knee swelling is not a diagnosis itself—it’s a symptom with a variety of possible causes. Here are some of the most common: ✅ ① Trauma or Overuse Injuries from sports or prolonged walking can lead to inflammation in the knee joint, resulting in swelling. ✅ ② Meniscus or Ligament Injury Damage to structures like the meniscus or cruciate ligaments may cause internal bleeding or increased joint fluid, leading to visible swelling. ✅ ③...
자세한 내용 보기
A Case of Hand Numbness Improved through Upper Cervical and Integrative Treatment by Son PMR(Physical medicine & Rehabilitation ) & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul  A patient recently visited our clinic complaining of persistent numbness in both hands. This individual had worked in a physically demanding job for many years, frequently using their hands and arms in repetitive tasks. Despite receiving various treatments at multiple clinics, the symptoms either temporarily improved or continued to recur. Referred by an acquaintance, the patient underwent a comprehensive evaluation at our clinic, including a detailed consultation, postural assessment, and upper cervical spine (C1 and C2) functional testing. It was found that subtle misalignments in the upper cervical spine were likely contributing to ongoing nerve irritation, muscular tension, and postural imbalance — all of which could aggravate hand numbness. Our treatment approach combined gentle upper cervical chiropractic ...
자세한 내용 보기