Treating TMJ Disorders Naturally

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the jawbone to the skull on both sides of the head and allows jaw movement. TMJ disorders, also known as TMD, can cause pain in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles.

TMD can affect the jaws, ears and temples - Let's look at what causes TMJ disorders and how acupuncture for TMJ can help effectively resolving this condition.

What Causes TMJ Disorder?

An article according to BUPA, around one in 10 people in the UK have a problem with their jaw joint. Doctors call this group of conditions jaw joint dysfunction or temporomandibular disorder (TMJ).

In Oriental Medicine, TMJ disorders are a deficiency related condition; although Doctors say they do not know the exact cause. That said, factors such as clenching or grinding your teeth (bruxism), arthritis, injury or trauma to the jaw are known to play a role.

TMJ disorder is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint, which is the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, arthritis, bruxism (teeth grinding), and stress. Common symptoms of TMJ disorder include pain or tenderness in the jaw, difficulty opening or closing the mouth, clicking or popping sounds when opening the mouth, headaches, earaches, and neck pain.

Acupuncture for treating TMJ Disorders

Acupuncture is a traditional oriental medicine practice that has been used for thousands of years to treat a wide variety of health conditions, including TMJ disorder. In acupuncture, thin needles are inserted into specific points on the body known as acupoints. These acupoints are believed to be connected to energy pathways known as meridians, and stimulating them is thought to restore balance and promote healing.

At Eastern Scholars Clinic, we use Daoist medical techniques to diagnose and treat, from advanced pulse diagnosis to advanced needling methods, as well as Daoist Herbal Medicine.

How many Treatment Sessions do you need?

Getting acupuncture treatment for a TMJ disorder typically involves a series of sessions, with the number and frequency of sessions varying depending on the severity of the condition and the individual needs of the patient. During each session, the acupuncturist will insert needles into specific acupoints on the face, neck, and body. The needles are typically left in place for 20–30 minutes, during which time the patient may feel a mild tingling sensation or a dull ache.

In addition to acupuncture, other modalities used in Daoist Medicine (and sometimes Traditional Chinese medicine) can also be effective in treating TMJ disorders. For example, Herbal remedies and dietary modifications may also be recommended to support the body's natural healing processes.

One of the key benefits of acupuncture treatments for TMJ disorders, is that it is a non-invasive and drug-free treatment option. This makes it a safe choice for those who may be unable to take medication due to allergies, sensitivities, or other health concerns. Additionally, acupuncture has few side effects and can be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as physical therapy or medication, to provide a comprehensive approach to healing.

Benefits of Booking a Treatment Session with us

• Advanced Pulse Diagnosis: Understanding the reason of your condition will allow for the best treatment plan. The most important part of any treatment, is to know what exactly is going on. No two conditions are every exactly the same, and differentiating and properly diagnosing is important to come up with the right treatment and regimen.
• 15+ Years Experience in Treating TMJ Disorders (Bruxism, Teeth Grinding, Jaw Clenching etc).

Research into TMJ Disorders

Research has shown that acupuncture can be effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with TMJ disorder. One study published in the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation found that acupuncture was as effective as splint therapy, which is a commonly used treatment for TMJ disorder, in reducing pain and improving jaw function. Another study published in the Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies found that acupuncture was effective in reducing both pain and anxiety in patients with TMJ disorder.

If you are considering acupuncture as a treatment for TMJ disorder, it is important to choose a qualified acupuncturist who has actual experience treating this condition. They will be able to develop a personalized treatment plan that takes into account your individual symptoms and needs, and can help you achieve the best possible outcomes. It is also important to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment, including acupuncture.

In conclusion, TMJ disorder can be a painful and debilitating condition, but acupuncture offers a safe and effective treatment option for many patients. By stimulating the body's natural healing mechanisms and promoting balance, acupuncture can help to reduce pain and improve function in the jaw, as well as alleviate associated symptoms such as headaches and neck pain. If you suffer from TMJ disorder, consider exploring acupuncture as a treatment option to help you achieve better health and well-being.