Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders encompass a range of issues affecting the jaw joint, causing pain, clicking sounds, and difficulty moving the jaw. While injuries, arthritis, and teeth grinding are common culprits, recent studies in the past decade suggest a surprising connection: TMJ dysfunction can contribute to back pain. This article explores how TMJ issues might trigger a domino effect on posture and lead to discomfort in your shoulder and back.
The Connection Between TMJ and Posture
The human body is a complex, interconnected system where alignment and function in one area can significantly affect other areas. The jaw's position is closely linked to the overall posture of the head and neck. An improperly aligned TMJ can lead to an imbalance in this area, which may necessitate compensatory changes in posture to maintain balance and function.
Head and Neck Alignment: The jaw position influences the muscles of the face, neck, and even the shoulders. A misaligned TMJ can cause these muscles to adapt in ways that lead to tension and misalignment in the neck and upper back.
Muscular Compensation: When the TMJ is not functioning correctly, the surrounding muscles may overcompensate to facilitate jaw movements. This excessive muscle activity can lead to muscle strain and altered tension patterns that extend down to the neck and back.
Nerve Involvement: The trigeminal nerve, primarily responsible for innervating the facial muscles, can be affected by TMJ disorders. Irritation or dysfunction of this nerve might influence other neural pathways, including those controlling postural muscles.
How TMJ Disorders Might Cause Back Pain
Back pain related to TMJ disorders generally stems from the altered posture and compensatory muscular adjustments mentioned earlier. When the jaw is misaligned, it can lead to a forward head posture, a common issue where the head juts forward instead of being aligned directly above the spine. This posture can strain the neck and upper back muscles, increasing the risk of pain and discomfort in these areas.
Additionally, the continuous tension in the neck can propagate further down the spine, leading to mid and lower-back pain. This cascade of compensatory adjustments underscores the body's interconnected nature and how a problem in one area can lead to issues in seemingly unrelated parts.
Addressing TMJ-Related Back Pain: A Multifaceted Approach
Managing TMJ-related back pain effectively requires a multidisciplinary approach. Addressing the root cause of TMJ dysfunction, such as malocclusion or bruxism, through dental and orthodontic treatments can be crucial. Physical therapists can design exercises to address both TMJ symptoms and associated postural issues. Additionally, educating patients on proper posture and ergonomic adjustments can help alleviate undue stress on the TMJ and the spine.
The link between TMJ disorders and back pain is a compelling example of how dysfunction in one part of the body can impact overall well-being. Understanding and addressing the root causes of TMJ disorders can not only alleviate jaw pain but also help prevent or reduce associated back problems. This holistic view is crucial for effective treatment and underscores the importance of consulting a healthcare professional for diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment plan.
If you are experiencing TMJ pain, please contact (02) 9558 8988. Our dentist Dr Lisa Chong specialises in this area for more than 30 years.