It’s easy to think that the term “TMJ disorder” involves pain only in the jaw! Temporomandibular Joint Disorder begins with pain in the jaw joints, but because of the intricacy of the surrounding nerves, blood supply, and orofacial muscles, pain often radiates causing headaches, neck pain, and back pain. Yes, it’s true!
How Does TMJ Disorder (TMJ/TMD) Cause Pain in Other Areas of the Body?
Throughout the body, there is an intricate webbing of nerves rooted into the spinal column. When nerve branches are compressed, pinched, or damaged, they may cause referred pain – which is pain that occurs in a location other than the injured area of the body. Referred pain occurs because all nerves eventually lead back to the spinal column, which can send numbing sensations or pain to other nerve branches. The trigeminal nerve runs from the lower jaw, through the jaw joints and skull, and attaches to the spinal cord. As TMJ/TMD progresses, nerve pain may permeate to the spinal column and refer pain to other areas of the body or extremities like the arms, hands, legs, or feet. In cases of TMJ Disorder, frequent headaches of migraine like intensity, and neck and back pain are commonly reported. If left untreated, this pain can become chronic and chronic pain overstimulates the body’s nervous system – thereby prolonging the pain! It’s a vicious cycle!
Additionally, muscular imbalances or strains can refer pain to opposites sides of the body or above or below the actual problem area. The same can be true for TMJ Disorder. In fact, research indicates a connection between the symptoms of TMJ Disorder and Fibromyalgia – a disorder that affects mostly women and produces widespread pain throughout the body.
What Should I Do if I Think I Have TMJ/TMD?
If you experience symptoms of TMJ/TMD like chronic jaw pain, difficulty opening and closing your jaw, pain while chewing or speaking, clicking or popping sounds in your jaw joints, ear pain, neck pain, stuffy ears, or dizziness, contact TMJ Dentist Dr. Priya Mistry for a consultation. Dr. Mistry is a dentist in Vancouver, WA who provides non-surgical treatment options for TMJ/TMD. Her treatment options include custom orthotics, craniofacial therapy, and/or DTR/T Scan. She will tell you which option is best for you during your initial consultation. To learn more about TMJ Disorder or to explore treatment options, make an appointment with Dr. Priya Mistry- the TMJ doc – by calling (503) 255-8293.
