Conditions

TMJ Disorders

The jaw is a hinge joint called the Temporal Mandibular Joint (TMJ). The TMJ connects the mandible (jaw) to the skull. This joint is one of the most frequently used in the body. The articular disk separates the condyle head of the mandible and the skull. When this disk is misplaced it will cause Temporal Mandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ). Studies show about 35% of the American population has TMJ disorders.

A common symptom could be having a limited range of motion within the joint. If you cannot fit three fingers in your open mouth and you experience pain, it is possible you have TMJ. Commonly, TMJ is accompanied by noises such as clicking, grinding, or crunching when you open and close your mouth.

TMJ disorders have various causes. Misaligned or missing teeth can force the bone out of its proper position. Trauma from a fall or car crash whiplash can do the same thing. Many times stress results in a grinding of the teeth or clenching of the jaw causing muscle strain. That pain can flow throughout your face, neck, and head causing various symptoms and discomfort.

Dr. Peter Huynh can evaluate and treat TMJ disorders with phototherapy, trigger point therapy, TMJ adjustment, acupuncture and proper home instruction.

  • At 77 years of age, having lived a very active life as an architect and property developer, I was told by my neurologists and orthopedic surgeon that my chronic lower back and leg pains (bulging disc) complicated by my imbalance and incontinence at this point could only be treated with surgery and/or heavy pain medications. Neither were acceptable options to me. My daughter had heard through the media that spinal decompression was accomplishing outstanding success in treating these problems.

    A new hope was born when I met with Dr. Peter Huynh and he reviewed my MRI. He assured me this non-invasive treatment could be of significant help to me. I now stand taller, my balance has improved, I have more energy and he was able to correct my posture and gait. Now, as I leave 8 weeks of inspirational treatment by a most talented and considerate doctor and friend, I’m going home to finish the leaf raking, and home maintenance that have been neglected for years.

    Thank you Dr. Peter for giving my life back to me.

    - Phil Brown