The jaw joint, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ), gets its name from the two bones comprising it, the temporal bone of the skull and the mandible, or jaw bone. These two bones fit together to form the hinge-like jaw joint. The TMJ is more complex than just a hinge joint that opens and closes. Talking and chewing are dependent on correct muscle firing patterns to create ideal movements.
Chiropractors using applied kinesiology have long known that temporomandibular joint dysfunction can cause symptoms far removed from the joint itself. Headaches, back pain, and pain across the shoulders are often relieved after temporomandibular joint dysfunction is corrected. More recent evidence shows that the TMJ can cause functional problems throughout the body all the way down to the feet. 
Practically anything can cause problems in the TMJ, and the reverse is true also. TMJ imbalances have far reaching effect because of both the proprioceptive effect and the nerves in the vicinity of the jaw. TMJ pain/dysfunction can be very difficult and frustrating at best, as most chiropractors and dentists address this problem solely with a month guard. The TMJ is further complicated by the interrelationship to chemical and emotional problems. This is quite common. Trapped emotions, especially when you are not able to, or afraid to, express yourself and your opinions, can often end up in the jaw and throat area. This is usually corrected quite easily by finding the right method such as NET to help the patient to release the associated issue.
So, with all of these connections, what should one do? A holistic practitioner who integrates treatment of structure, chemistry, and emotions will have the best shot at unraveling your “TMJ” issue. Practitioners who are trained in applied kinesiology (AK) can address all these.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)
Chiropractors using applied kinesiology have long known that temporomandibular joint dysfunction can cause symptoms far removed from the joint itself. Headaches, back pain, and pain across the shoulders are often relieved after temporomandibular joint dysfunction is corrected. More recent evidence shows that the TMJ can cause functional problems throughout the body all the way down to the feet.
Practically anything can cause problems in the TMJ, and the reverse is true also. TMJ imbalances have far reaching effect because of both the proprioceptive effect and the nerves in the vicinity of the jaw. TMJ pain/dysfunction can be very difficult and frustrating at best, as most chiropractors and dentists address this problem solely with a month guard. The TMJ is further complicated by the interrelationship to chemical and emotional problems. This is quite common. Trapped emotions, especially when you are not able to, or afraid to, express yourself and your opinions, can often end up in the jaw and throat area. This is usually corrected quite easily by finding the right method such as NET to help the patient to release the associated issue.
So, with all of these connections, what should one do? A holistic practitioner who integrates treatment of structure, chemistry, and emotions will have the best shot at unraveling your “TMJ” issue. Practitioners who are trained in applied kinesiology (AK) can address all these.