What Is TMJ Dysfunction?
The TMJ is the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. It’s responsible for movements like chewing, speaking, and yawning. When this joint becomes inflamed, misaligned, or overworked, it can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms.
Common symptoms of TMJ issues include:
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Jaw pain or tenderness
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Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds
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Locking of the jaw
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Earaches or a feeling of fullness in the ears
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Frequent headaches or migraines
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Neck and shoulder tension
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Difficulty chewing or opening the mouth fully
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Facial pain or swelling
These symptoms may come and go or become chronic over time, affecting your quality of life and daily comfort.
How Chiropractic Can Help
While many TMJ treatments focus only on the jaw itself, chiropractic care takes a more comprehensive approach. Misalignments in the upper neck and spine can impact how the jaw functions, creating abnormal pressure on the TMJ and surrounding muscles.
At McCollum Family Chiropractic, we perform a full-body postural analysis to understand how your spine, neck, and jaw are working together. Through gentle spinal and cranial adjustments, we can relieve pressure, restore balance, and help your body heal naturally.
Our Approach to TMJ Relief
Your care begins with a thorough consultation and examination to identify the root cause of your TMJ dysfunction. We may use muscle testing, postural assessments, and other non-invasive techniques to evaluate your jaw alignment, spinal health, and nervous system function.
Treatment may include:
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Gentle chiropractic adjustments to the neck and upper spine
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Soft tissue work on the jaw muscles and surrounding areas
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Cold laser or Erchonia laser therapy to reduce inflammation
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Bite and posture analysis
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At-home exercises and lifestyle recommendations
By correcting the structural imbalances contributing to TMJ dysfunction, we help your body reduce tension, improve jaw mobility, and naturally relieve pain.
Why Choose McCollum Family Chiropractic?
At our Capitola clinic, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Each patient receives personalized care that supports the body’s natural ability to heal and function at its best. We’ve helped countless individuals find relief from jaw pain, headaches, and tension—often after trying other treatments without success.
Whether your TMJ symptoms are recent or have been bothering you for years, we’re here to help you get to the root of the issue and find long-term relief.
Ready to stop living with TMJ pain?
Schedule a consultation today at McCollum Family Chiropractic in Capitola, CA, and let’s help you feel better, naturally.