• Most TMJ (or also called TMJ dysfunction - the term I prefer) is caused by injury or overuse of the muscles of the jaw. If not treated, or at least rested sufficiently, it will worsen and begin to involve the cartilage.

• The best treatment, in the early stages of the condition, is massage of the muscles, combined with very mild stimulation of the muscles with microcurrent. Microcurrent is a non-painful treatment that works very quickly in most cases.

• An inexpensive bite splint is often helpful, especially if you are one of those who grind your teeth together.

• Your neck is, in some sense, the foundation of the jaw and therefore must be functioning properly before full recovery is possible.

• Some people with TMJ dysfunction will benefit from taking glucosamine (or a similar compound) especially those who have ignored the problem for years.

• Many people with TMJ dysfunction have been told that the only way to treat the problem is with very expensive orthodontic work and custom made bite splints. Fortunately, many of these same people have found relief using one or more of the methods described above.
  
  If you have any questions about TMJ dysfunction, I offer low cost consultations.

Wade Guthrie, D.C.

Guthrie Chiropractic & Massage

235 W. 10th Ave.

Eugene, OR 97401

Phone: (541) 683-9069

Fax: (541) 431-7001

Please see www.mydocwade.com for more information.

Thank you!