Jaw pain, clicking, or tightness can make it difficult to eat, talk, or even relax. These symptoms are often signs of TMJ dysfunction—a problem affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects your jaw to your skull.
At New England Chiropractic & Massage, Dr. Chelsea helps patients in Londonderry find safe, effective relief from TMJ pain through gentle chiropractic and soft tissue care.
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Understanding TMJ Dysfunction
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The TMJ is one of the most frequently used joints in the body. It allows your mouth to open and close while chewing, speaking, or yawning. When the joint becomes irritated or misaligned, or when surrounding muscles tighten, it can cause pain and restricted movement.
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Common symptoms of TMJ dysfunction include:
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Jaw pain or stiffness
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Clicking or popping when opening or closing the mouth
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Headaches or ear discomfort
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Difficulty chewing or speaking
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Jaw locking or limited movement
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Tension in the face, neck, or shoulders
TMJ issues can be caused by stress, clenching or grinding teeth, injury, or imbalances in posture and movement. Dr. Chelsea’s goal is to find what’s contributing to your TMJ discomfort and create a treatment plan that helps restore balance and relief.
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How Chiropractic Care Helps with TMJ Pain
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Chiropractic care for TMJ dysfunction focuses on improving alignment and reducing tension in the joints and muscles that control jaw movement. By restoring normal motion and releasing tight soft tissues, Dr. Chelsea helps relieve strain on the jaw and reduce inflammation.
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Her treatments often include gentle adjustments to the jaw, neck, and upper spine, as well as soft tissue techniques that target the muscles of the face, head, and shoulders. She may also incorporate massage or stretching to further reduce tightness and improve jaw function.
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Benefits of chiropractic care for TMJ pain include:
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Reduced jaw and facial pain
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Less clicking, popping, or locking
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Fewer tension headaches
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Improved range of jaw motion
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Better comfort when eating and speaking
What to Expect During Your Visit
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Your first visit begins with a conversation about your symptoms, lifestyle, and any history of jaw clenching, grinding, or injury. Dr. Chelsea will evaluate your jaw movement, muscle tension, posture, and neck alignment to identify contributing factors.
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If chiropractic care is appropriate, she’ll explain her approach clearly and begin with gentle techniques to reduce tension and restore balance. Many patients notice gradual improvement in pain and jaw function over a few visits.
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Why Patients in Londonderry Choose Dr. Chelsea
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Dr. Chelsea provides calm, comprehensive care that addresses both the structural and muscular causes of TMJ pain. She combines chiropractic adjustments with soft tissue therapy and massage for more complete, lasting relief.
Her evidence-based approach and clear communication help patients feel comfortable and confident throughout the process. Whether your TMJ symptoms are mild or chronic, she’ll work with you to create a personalized plan for recovery and comfort.
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Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Pain Relief
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Is chiropractic care safe for TMJ pain?
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Yes. Chiropractic care is safe and effective for TMJ dysfunction. Dr. Chelsea uses gentle, precise techniques that target both the joint and surrounding muscles to relieve discomfort.
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How is chiropractic care different from dental treatment for TMJ?
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Dentists often address TMJ from a bite alignment or appliance perspective, while chiropractic care focuses on the structural and muscular balance of the jaw, neck, and upper back. The two approaches can complement each other well.
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Can stress cause TMJ pain?
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Yes. Clenching or grinding your teeth—especially during stress—can create muscle tension and inflammation in the jaw, contributing to TMJ dysfunction.
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How many visits will I need?
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That depends on your symptoms and how long you’ve had them. Some patients notice improvement after just a few visits, while others benefit from a short series of treatments to restore full comfort and function.
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Can chiropractic care help with headaches caused by TMJ dysfunction?
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Yes. Tension in the jaw and surrounding muscles often contributes to headaches. By addressing both jaw and neck movement, chiropractic care can help reduce headache frequency and intensity.
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Find Relief from TMJ Pain Today
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If you’re looking for a chiropractor in the Londonderry area to help relieve TMJ pain, Dr. Chelsea at New England Chiropractic & Massage can help. Call the office today or visit the New Patient Page to schedule your first appointment and start feeling more comfortable again.