Back Clinic Treatments. There are various treatments for all types of injuries and conditions here at Injury Medical & Chiropractic Clinic. The main goal is to correct any misalignments in the spine through manual manipulation and placing misaligned vertebrae back in their proper place. Patients will be given a series of treatments, which are based on the diagnosis. This can include spinal manipulation, as well as other supportive treatments. And as chiropractic treatment has developed, so have its methods and techniques.
Why do chiropractors use one method/technique over another?
A common method of spinal adjustment is the toggle drop method. With this method, a chiropractor crosses their hands and pressed down firmly on an area of the spine. They will then adjust the area with a quick and precise thrust. This method has been used for years and is often used to help increase a patient’s mobility.
Another popular method takes place on a special drop table. The table has different sections, which can be moved up or down based on the body’s position. Patients lie face down on their back or side while the chiropractor applies quick thrusts throughout the spinal area as the table section drops. Many prefer this table adjustment, as this method is lighter and does not include twisting motions used in other methods.
Chiropractors also use specialized tools to assist in their adjustments, i.e., the activator. A chiropractor uses this spring-loaded tool to perform the adjustment/s instead of their hands. Many consider the activator method to be the most gentle of all.
Whichever adjustment method a chiropractor uses, they all offer great benefits to the spine and overall health and wellness. If there is a certain method that is preferred, talk to a chiropractor about it. If they do not perform a certain technique, they may recommend a colleague that does.
The neck is the connector to the head and shoulders, allowing mobility and functionality to stabilize the head from dropping down. The neck is also part of the cervical spine, where many neuron pathways, ligaments, and muscles work with the central nervous system to provide sensory-motor signals to the brain. The neck muscles also work together with the shoulder and upper back muscles to function for the upper extremities. These are known as the splenius muscles and help support the cervical spine. However, like all muscles in the body, the neck can succumb to traumatic injuries or common factors that can cause the neck muscles to be overused, injured, and strained to cause the nerves to send out disruptive signals to the brain and issues to develop. Today’s article looks at the splenius muscles on the neck, how trigger points affect the splenius muscles, and how to manage neck pain associated with trigger points. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in musculoskeletal treatments to aid individuals suffering from myofascial trigger pain associated with neck pain affecting the splenius muscles. We also guide our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We ensure to find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Jimenez DC observes this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
The Splenius Muscles On The Neck
Have you been experiencing muscle pain in your neck? What about feeling tightness on the sides of your neck when you move your head from side to side? Or do random headaches seem to pop out of nowhere and affect your day? Most of these symptoms are associated with neck pain affecting the splenius muscles and can cause overlapping issues affecting the neck and the upper back. The splenius muscles are split into two muscle groups: the splenius capitis and the splenius cervicis. Both of the splenius muscles each have a job for neck functionality. The splenius capitis provides rotation and extension to the head, while the splenius cervicis provides rotation and extends to the cervical spine. The splenius capitis fibers are connected with the SCM (sternocleidomastoid) muscles that help move the head. The splenius cervicis encompasses the upper three cervical vertebrae and attach their muscle fibers to scapulae muscles. Even though these two muscles offer different functions, they could potentially be involved in injuries that can cause neck and upper back issues.
How Trigger Points Affect The Splenius Muscles
One of the most common complaints many people seem to be impacted is shoulder and neck pain. Various factors can cause an impact on the shoulders and neck due to overusing the splenius muscles connected to the neck and shoulders and developing trigger points associated with the splenius muscles. Studies reveal that trigger points or myofascial pain can make the splenius muscles hypersensitive and tender along the taut band of the splenius muscles. To that point, the splenius muscles become palpable and produce localized pain to other structures along the neck, shoulders, and head. Trigger points are a bit complex to diagnose because they mimic other chronic issues that affect the body and potentially involve many common symptoms that could happen daily. Studies reveal that common symptoms like headaches are associated with trigger points along the head, neck, and shoulder muscles. Since trigger points are challenging to diagnose, they can make the taut band of the musculoskeletal fibers and become either active or latent when pressure is on the affected area. To that point, causes tension occurs in the body’s head, neck, and shoulders. Fortunately, various ways to manage trigger point pain are associated with neck pain along the splenius muscles.
Trigger Points & Splenius Muscles- Video
Have you been dealing with random headaches that randomly occur throughout the day? What about experiencing muscle stiffness and tenderness located on your neck and shoulders? Or have you been experiencing poor sleep throughout the night? Most of these symptoms are associated with trigger point pain associated with neck pain along the splenius muscles. The video above explains how trigger points affect the splenius muscles and some of the causes that lead to the development of trigger point pain along the splenius muscles. Many people dealing with trigger points associated with neck pain often explain to their doctors that they have been feeling muscle stiffness along their neck, causing limited mobility. Studies reveal that active myofascial trigger points along the neck and shoulder muscles elicited referred pain to contribute to symptoms of pain intensity, disability, and poor sleep quality to mechanical neck pain. To that point, many individuals try to incorporate various treatments to alleviate the symptoms and manage neck pain associated with trigger points.
Managing Neck Pain Associated With Trigger Points
Many people dealing with neck pain associated with trigger points along the splenius muscles often don’t realize that some causes affect how the muscles are used. Ordinary factors like poor posture, looking down at the phones, or leaning closer to any screens can cause strain on the splenius muscles. In contrast, traumatic factors like whiplash or auto accidents can inflict pain on the muscle fibers. Various ways to manage neck pain associated with trigger points are non-invasive unless the pain is severe. When a person goes to their primary doctor for a routine check-up, they describe the symptoms of pain affecting their bodies while the doctor examines them. Once the issue is diagnosed, many doctors will refer their patients to a pain specialist specializing in the matter. So say if a person is dealing with neck pain associated with trigger point pain along their splenius muscles that is causing them headaches, would be referred to a pain specialist like a chiropractor to relieve myofascial trigger pain along the splenius muscles that are suffering from spinal subluxation in the musculoskeletal system. Spinal adjustments allow the stiff muscles to become loose and even break up the adhesion of the trigger points on the muscle. Incorporating chiropractic care to treat neck pain associated with trigger points can bring back functionality to the body.
Conclusion
The neck allows the head to be mobile and help keeps it stable. As part of the cervical spine, the neck has many neuron pathways, ligaments, and muscles that work with the central nervous system to provide sensory-motor function. The muscles that provide functionality to the shoulders, neck, and upper back are called the splenius muscles. The splenius muscles consist of two groups: the capitis and cervicis, which have different jobs for neck functionality. However, like any muscle in the body may potentially be impacted by various issues that can cause neck and upper back issues. Common and traumatic issues can lead to the development of myofascial trigger pain along the neck muscles. To that point causes neck pain and disability to the neck. When this happens, various treatments are available to manage neck pain associated with myofascial pain and alleviate the symptoms, causing relief to the neck.
References
Chatchawan, Uraiwan, et al. “Characteristics and Distributions of Myofascial Trigger Points in Individuals with Chronic Tension-Type Headaches.” Journal of Physical Therapy Science, The Society of Physical Therapy Science, Apr. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6451952/.
Henson, Brandi, et al. “Anatomy, Back, Muscles – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 10 Aug. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537074/.
Muñoz-Muñoz , Sonsoles, et al. “Myofascial Trigger Points, Pain, Disability, and Sleep Quality in Individuals with Mechanical Neck Pain.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Oct. 2012, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23158466/.
Ribeiro, Daniel Cury, et al. “The Prevalence of Myofascial Trigger Points in Neck and Shoulder-Related Disorders: A Systematic Review of the Literature.” BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, BioMed Central, 25 July 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6060458/.
Having headaches can affect anyone at any time, and various issues (both underlying and non-underlying) can play a part in the development. Factors like stress, allergies, traumatic events, or anxiety can trigger the causes of headaches to develop and can affect a person’s day-to-day schedule. Headaches can come in various forms and be the cause or symptom of other conditions. Many complain about headaches affecting their forehead, where the occipitofrontalis muscle resides, and explain to their doctors about a dull ache affecting them. To that point, the cause of the headache could affect them differently. Today’s article examines the occipitofrontalis muscle, how myofascial trigger pain affects this muscle, and ways to manage myofascial trigger pain associated with headaches. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in musculoskeletal treatments to aid individuals suffering from myofascial trigger pain associated with headache symptoms affecting the occipitofrontalis muscle. We also guide our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We ensure to find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Jimenez DC observes this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
What Is The Occipitofrontalis Muscle?
Have you been experiencing unexplainable headaches that seem to affect your daily life? Do you feel muscle tension in your head or neck? Or do certain areas in your upper body seem tender to the touch? Many individuals suffer from headaches, and it could be due to myofascial trigger pain associated with the occipitofrontalis muscle. The occipitofrontalis muscle surprisingly plays an important part in the facial muscles. The occipitofrontalis muscle is the only muscle that can raise eyebrows, convey emotions, and provide non-verbal communication as part of its functionality to the head. The occipitofrontalis muscle has two different sections in the head that play different roles. Studies reveal that the occipital and frontal bellies have other actions but work together despite being connected to the galea aponeurotica. However, like all muscles in different body sections, various factors can affect the muscles to become tender and form multiple symptoms associated with pain.
How Does Myofascial Trigger Pain Affect The Occipitofrontalis?
When various factors begin to affect the occipitofrontalis muscle, it could potentially be at risk of developing myofascial trigger pain associated with headaches in the muscle. Studies reveal that myofascial trigger pain is a musculoskeletal disorder associated with muscle pain and tenderness that can be identified as latent or active. When the occipitofrontalis is affected by myofascial pain, it could potentially lead to tension-type headaches as a symptom. Studies reveal that headaches, especially tension headaches, are associated with trigger points in the head and neck muscles. Myofascial pain occurs when the muscles become overused and sensitive to the touch. The affected muscle then develops small nodules along the muscle fibers and can cause referred pain in a different body section. To that point, the affected muscle becomes hypersensitive due to an excess of nociceptive inputs from the peripheral nervous system, thus eliciting referred pain or muscle contraction. When this happens to the individual, they experience constant, throbbing pain in their forehead and try to find relief to diminish the pain.
Myofascial Exercises For Headaches-Video
Have you been feeling tension and pain in your neck or head? Do headaches seem to affect your daily activities? Does the slightest pressure seem to cause you pain in your muscles? Experiencing these symptoms may be a sign that you may have myofascial trigger pain associated with the head and neck that is causing headache-like pain along the occipitofrontalis muscle. The video above demonstrates various stretching exercises for headaches and migraines associated with myofascial trigger pain. Myofascial trigger pain associated with headaches can cause overlapping issues in the upper extremities of the body since myofascial trigger pain can mimic other conditions that affect the head and neck muscles. Known as referred pain, the underlying cause of pain affects a different body part than the actual location. Luckily, there are ways to manage myofascial trigger pain associated with headaches along the occipitofrontalis muscle.
How To Manage Myofascial Trigger Pain Associated With Headaches
There are many ways to manage headache symptoms associated with myofascial trigger pain along the occipitofrontalis muscle. Many people will take over-the-counter medicine to dull the pain, while others use a cold/hot pack to be placed on their forehead to relieve the tension caused by the headache. Those experiencing trigger point pain along the affected muscles that are not responding to the at-home treatments will go to a specialist that uses various techniques to manage myofascial trigger pain associated with headaches. Studies reveal that manual trigger point therapies for the head and neck may reduce the frequency, intensity, and duration of various headaches affecting the occipitofrontalis muscle. Other treatments that help manage myofascial pain associated with the occipitofrontal muscle include:
Chiropractic care: Spinal misalignment or spinal subluxation in the cervical spine can potentially lead to the development of myofascial trigger pain associated with muscle pain
Acupuncture: Dry needles are placed on the trigger points associated with the affected muscle to relieve pain
Hot/cold compress: Ice or heat packs are placed on the affected muscle to relieve tension.
Massage therapy: Deep tissue massage can relieve the inflamed area, reduce pain, and prevent trigger points from reemerging.
Utilizing these treatments can help prevent myofascial pain and manage headache symptoms associated with the muscle.
Conclusion
Headaches can affect anyone, and various issues can affect their development. Whether it is an underlying or non-underlying cause, multiple problems can trigger a headache to form and cause a dull ache in the affected muscle. One of the most common forms of headaches occurs in the occipitofrontalis muscle located in the forehead and near the base of the skull. The occipitofrontalis muscle is the only muscle that controls eyebrow movement, conveys emotions, and provides non-verbal communication as part of head functionality. However, like all muscles, the occipitofrontalis can become affected and potentially risk developing myofascial trigger pain. When this happens, the occipitofrontalis could develop tension-type headaches associated with myofascial trigger pain. Luckily available treatments are there to manage myofascial trigger pain associated with the occipitofrontalis muscle and alleviate headaches from the affected muscle.
References
Bérzin, F. “OCCIPITOFRONTALIS Muscle: Functional Analysis Revealed by Electromyography.” Electromyography and Clinical Neurophysiology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1989, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2689156/.
Chatchawan, Uraiwan, et al. “Characteristics and Distributions of Myofascial Trigger Points in Individuals with Chronic Tension-Type Headaches.” Journal of Physical Therapy Science, The Society of Physical Therapy Science, Apr. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6451952/.
Falsiroli Maistrello, Luca, et al. “Effectiveness of Trigger Point Manual Treatment on the Frequency, Intensity, and Duration of Attacks in Primary Headaches: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.” Frontiers in Neurology, Frontiers Media S.A., 24 Apr. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5928320/.
Moraska, Albert F, et al. “Responsiveness of Myofascial Trigger Points to Single and Multiple Trigger Point Release Massages: A Randomized, Placebo Controlled Trial.” American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Sept. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5561477/.
Pessino, Kenneth, et al. “Anatomy, Head and Neck, Frontalis Muscle – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 31 July 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557752/.
Individuals that have experienced a muscle strain, pull, spasm, etc., that has healed can begin to behave overly cautious, avoiding putting full weight on the area or using full motion out of fear of re-injuring it. This can and does strain other body areas because of the imbalance and awkward positioning. It also leads to anxiety, emotional distress, and decreased self-confidence in everyday movement. Adjustments, massage, and decompression therapy can maintain musculoskeletal health, and a chiropractor can help retrain individuals on healthy posture and confident movement.
Muscle Guarding
Muscles can be held in a position of readiness to act, like the stress response of fight or flight. When this happens, the muscles are partially contracted in preparation for action and is a form of muscle-guarding. But once the fight or flight passes, the muscles relax into their normal position. With injury muscle guarding, the fears and stresses after recovering from an injury can cause the injured and non-injured muscles to stay in the guarded/semi-contracted position. The longer the muscle guarding continues, fatigue begins to set in, decreasing function, restricting mobility, and making the body more vulnerable to damage and injury.
The Brain
The discomfort, pain, or just the thought reinforces the need to guard the area. The brain will find a way to move without causing pain and create compensating but unhealthy movement patterns that strain the other areas of the body. The body adapts to not using the formerly injured muscles and now relies on the other muscles to perform the functions in a non-relaxed state that can become normal, causing stiffness, soreness, tenderness, tendon tension, and pain.
An example is a hip strain, pull or spasm that has been treated and has healed, but the individual is fearful of another injury or going through the painful experience again and begins walking by shifting all their weight to the other side and steps with a limp or some abnormal motion that strains and/or injures the rest of the body.
Chiropractic Treatment and Retraining
Individuals experiencing muscle guarding can find help through chiropractic to retrain their muscles to return to their normal position and regain confidence in their movements. The body will be rebalanced by releasing and relaxing the tight muscles. Then therapeutic repetitive movements, specialized exercises, stretches, and relaxation techniques will help the individual relearn to use the muscles without fear.
Protective Muscle Guarding
References
Hanlon, Shawn et al. “Examining Ankle-Joint Laxity Using 2 Knee Positions and With Simulated Muscle Guarding.” Journal of athletic training vol. 51,2 (2016): 111-7. doi:10.4085/1062-6050-51.3.06
Olugbade, Temitayo et al. “The relationship between guarding, pain, and emotion.” Pain reports vol. 4,4 e770. 22 Jul. 2019, doi:10.1097/PR9.0000000000000770
Prkachin, Kenneth M et al. “Pain behavior and the development of pain-related disability: the importance of guarding.” The Clinical journal of pain vol. 23,3 (2007): 270-7. doi:10.1097/AJP.0b013e3180308d28
Everyone in the world has various expressions that reflect how they are feeling. From being excited, worried, sad, angry, and disgusted, facial expressions defy people who they are, what they eat, and how they look. Each of the different muscles that make up the face has other jobs to work at the various locations of the upper extremities. The muscles on the forehead and near the eyes help people see while opening, closing, and raising their eyebrows. The muscles around the nose help take in air to breathe. The muscles located in the jaw help people chew food and speak. The neck muscles help support the head and provide mobility. All these muscles have specific jobs, and when issues affect the upper body extremities, they can potentially lead to different problems. When environmental factors like stress, anxiety, or depression begin to affect the body, it can also affect its facial features, causing unwanted symptoms to develop. Today’s article focuses on myofascial trigger pain on the face, the signs and symptoms associated with myofascial facial pain, and how to manage myofascial facial pain. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in musculoskeletal and oral treatments to aid individuals suffering from myofascial trigger pain affecting their facial muscles. We also guide our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We ensure to find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Jimenez DC observes this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
How Does Myofascial Trigger Pain Affect The Face?
Have you been experiencing pain-like symptoms in your jaw? What about feeling constant pressure around your nose or cheeks? Do you feel tenderness in certain body areas around your face? Many of these symptoms you are experiencing could potentially involve myofascial trigger pain affecting the facial muscles. Having myofascial trigger pain in the upper extremities of the body can be challenging, as studies reveal that myofascial pain syndrome is a muscular pain disorder that is often misunderstood as it involves referred pain from small, tender trigger pain within the muscle fibers causing pain in different locations of the body than the actual source. Myofascial trigger pain often mimics other chronic conditions that cause doctors to be confused when patients mention that they have been experiencing symptoms and it’s affecting their daily lives. For myofascial trigger pain affecting the face, studies reveal that facial pain associated with myofascial trigger pain can be classified in various ways that affect the nasal, orbital, and oral cavities, the temporomandibular joint, and the sinuses from underlying pathologies. Myofascial pain correlating with the face can have many trigger points that can make a person feel miserable and affect their daily lives.
Like the rest of the body, the face has numerous nerves that branched out from the brain in the central nervous system, providing sensory-motor functions to the muscles. The trigeminal nerves help give movement to the face, and when myofascial pain affects the facial regions, studies reveal that the causes can include:
Idiopathic factors
Trigeminal neuralgia
Dental problems
TMJ disorders
Cranial abnormalities
Infection
Acute muscle injury
Stress and anxiety
These signs are associated with myofascial facial pain due to common overlapping symptoms affecting each muscle around the face. Some of the symptoms related to myofascial facial pain include:
Tingling sensations
Throbbing pain
Headaches
Toothaches
Neck pain
Shoulder pain
Feeling stuffed up
Muscle tenderness
Chronic Facial Pain-Video
Have you been experiencing muscle tenderness in certain parts of your face? What about feeling stuffed up around the areas of your cheeks and nose? Or have you been feeling stiffness and pain along your jaw, neck, or shoulders? If you have been experiencing these pain symptoms, it could be facial pain associated with myofascial trigger pain. The video above overviews chronic facial pain and how it affects the head and neck. Research studies reveal that pain affecting the body for more than six months is considered chronic. Just like any other chronic pain symptoms in the body, chronic facial pain causes a neuropathic response to the central nervous system, making an injury hypersensitive and potentially involving associated symptoms from other chronic disorders. Myofascial dysfunction related to facial pain may become severe to activate trigger points along the facial muscle fibers, causing prickling sensations in the face. Luckily, there are available treatments for managing myofascial facial pain.
Management Of Myofascial Facial Pain
When managing myofascial pain associated with the face, many patients will go to their primary doctor and explain that they are experiencing pain and other symptoms that make them miserable. Doctors then examine the patient to see what is ailing them through a physical examination. Some doctors often utilize manual manipulation and other tools to diagnose that myofascial pain might be the cause. As stated earlier, myofascial pain associated with the face can be a bit complex as it can mimic other chronic conditions. Once the doctor diagnoses myofascial pain related to the face, they can refer their patients to pain specialists like chiropractors, physical therapists, physiatrists, and massage therapists to alleviate myofascial pain related to the face by examining where the causes are coming from. Pain specialists incorporate various techniques to relieve myofascial pain associated with the face:
Stretch & spray (Stretching the muscle and spraying a coolant spray to loosen tight muscles along the neck)
Putting pressure on the trigger point (This helps smooth out the affected muscle and fascia)
Gentle stretching exercises (Help strengthen the affected muscles)
Hot or cold compress (Helps relax the muscles and break up the adhesion from scar tissue)
Incorporating these treatments can help manage the symptoms associated with myofascial pain and can help alleviate muscle pain, thus preventing further issues from developing over time.
Conclusion
The facial muscles have specific jobs with different functions that help the body function properly. These jobs help various sections of the face by expressing how we feel, what we eat and taste, breath, and other jobs that define people. When issues begin to affect the upper extremities of the body, they can cause lead to different problems that affect the facial features of the face and cause unwanted symptoms to develop. This is known as myofascial pain and is often misunderstood,s since it can mimic other chronic conditions that affect the body. Different factors and symptoms associated with myofascial pain can become difficult to diagnose. Still, various techniques can help manage the symptoms over time to prevent further injuries from occurring on the face and the body.
References
Fricton, J R, et al. “Myofascial Pain Syndrome of the Head and Neck: A Review of Clinical Characteristics of 164 Patients.” Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, and Oral Pathology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Dec. 1985, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3865133/.
Williams, Christopher G, et al. “Management of Chronic Facial Pain.” Craniomaxillofacial Trauma & Reconstruction, Thieme Medical Publishers, May 2009, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3052669/.
Yoon, Seung Zhoo, et al. “A Case of Facial Myofascial Pain Syndrome Presenting as Trigeminal Neuralgia.” Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology, and Endodontics, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 25 Dec. 2008, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19111486/.
Zakrzewska, Joanna M, and Troels S Jensen. “History of Facial Pain Diagnosis.” Cephalalgia : an International Journal of Headache, SAGE Publications, June 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5458869/.
The lower jaw of the body has the mastication muscles surrounding the mandible and provides functionality to the jaw through chewing, moving the lower jaw up, down, left, and right, and speaking. The jaw also has joints known as the temporomandibular joints that slide back and forth to provide movement also. The jaw is also home to the teeth and tongue, which play a role in the mouth by consuming and grinding food into smaller bites to travel down to the gut system. Just like every joint and muscle in the body, common issues or injuries can affect the jaw and cause pain symptoms associated with the problem. Sometimes normal wear and tear can affect the joints in the jaw, or traumatic events can affect the surrounding muscles causing soreness in the jaw area. If the issue involving the jaw is not treated over time, it can lead to chronic disorders and overlap with other chronic disorders that can affect the whole body and the jaw. One of the jaw disorders is TMJ dysfunction, which can cause overlapping symptoms in the jaw and the body. Today’s article examines what TMJ dysfunction is, the signs and symptoms, and ways to manage TMJ dysfunction in the jaw. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in musculoskeletal and oral treatments to aid individuals suffering from TMJ dysfunction affecting their jaws. We also guide our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We ensure to find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Jimenez DC observes this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
What Is TMJ Dysfunction?
Have you been experiencing muscle pain in your neck, shoulders, and jaw? What about tenderness in your cheek when you lightly touched it? Or do you have difficulty chewing or moving your jaw when speaking? Many of these symptoms are signs that you could be experiencing TMJ dysfunction in your jaw. TMJ dysfunction, or temporomandibular dysfunction, is part of a group of orofacial pain conditions that affects the jaw joint and muscle, thus causing overlapping issues in the lower jaw. TMJ dysfunction also affects the mastication muscles that help move the jaw by making the muscles hyperactive and causing referred pain to the rest of the body. Studies reveal that about 25% of the population does get affected by TMJ dysfunction since it is a degenerative musculoskeletal condition associated with morphological and functional jaw deformities.
The Signs & Symptoms Of TMJ Dysfunction On The Jaw
TMJ dysfunction may potentially not only cause jaw pain but can also affect the neck and shoulders connected to the cervical spine. Studies reveal that TMJ dysfunction is correlated with neck disability, jaw dysfunction, and muscle tenderness in many individuals that suffer pain with or without TMJ dysfunction. TMJ dysfunction is associated with these issues because the jaw structures are affected by trigger points along the neck and jaw. To that point, TMJ dysfunction is often accompanied by back, joint, and abdominal pain. But how would TMJ dysfunction correlate with these pain issues? Studies reveal that disturbances in the upper body extremities may cause an increase in muscle tension associated with the whole-body imbalance that is potentially causing TMJ dysfunction. Some of the related symptoms of TMJ dysfunction in the jaw include:
Pain in neck and shoulders
The jaw becomes “locked” in an open or closed position
Headaches
Earaches
Muscle tenderness in the jaw
Having difficulty chewing
Swelling on the side of the face
Body imbalance
Exercises For TMJ Dysfunction- Video
Have you been experiencing muscle tenderness in your jaw? What about having some difficulty chewing or speaking? Do you hear popping sounds when your open or close your mouth? Some of these symptoms are associated with a musculoskeletal jaw disorder known as TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction. The video above shows the top 3 exercises for TMJ dysfunction that can help alleviate pain from the jaw, face, or ear. TMJ dysfunction is a musculoskeletal disorder that affects the mastication muscles and causes referred pain to the neck, head, and ear. TMJ dysfunction is tricky to diagnose since trigger points associated with TMJ may also affect the teeth, causing tooth pain in the oral-facial region. This is known as somato-visceral, where the affected muscle correlates with the corresponding organ. Thankfully, there are ways to manage TMJ dysfunction and its associated symptoms.
Ways To Manage TMJ Dysfunction In The Jaw
Many people can use various ways to manage TMJ dysfunction in the jaw to alleviate the pain. Some non-surgical treatments that individuals can incorporate include:
Heat or cold pack applied to the side of the face
Gentle stretching exercises for the jaw
Eating soft foods
Wearing a night guard while sleeping
If the pain from TMJ dysfunction still affects the individual, therapies like chiropractic care can help manage the symptoms. Chiropractic care can effectively treat TMJ dysfunction, especially spinal subluxation or misalignment in the cervical region. Chiropractors will fully evaluate the patient’s temporomandibular joint and surrounding muscles, joints, and ligaments to identify the TMJ problem and the underlying causes. To that point, a chiropractor may suggest a range of treatments, which includes stretches and exercises to not only alleviate pain and stiffness in the jaw point but also to bring back balance to the body. This allows minimal rubbing and friction in the jaw joint.
Conclusion
Overall, TMJ dysfunction is a musculoskeletal jaw disorder that affects the mastication muscles and causes referred pain to different areas in the upper extremities of the body. Some of the symptoms of TMJ dysfunction can make it difficult for the jaw to open or close, causing pain, headaches, and muscle tenderness in the neck and shoulders. To that point, individuals suffering from TMJ dysfunction may potentially deal with pain-related symptoms. Various non-surgical treatments are available to manage TMJ dysfunction and reduce associated pain symptoms affecting the jaw.
References
Kim, Doori, et al. “The Relationship between Spinal Pain and Temporomandibular Joint Disorders in Korea: A Nationwide Propensity Score-Matched Study – BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders.” BioMed Central, BioMed Central, 29 Dec. 2019, bmcmusculoskeletdisord.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12891-019-3003-4.
Murphy, Meghan K, et al. “Temporomandibular Disorders: A Review of Etiology, Clinical Management, and Tissue Engineering Strategies.” The International Journal of Oral & Maxillofacial Implants, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2013, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4349514/.
Silveira, A, et al. “Jaw Dysfunction Is Associated with Neck Disability and Muscle Tenderness in Subjects with and without Chronic Temporomandibular Disorders.” BioMed Research International, Hindawi Publishing Corporation, 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4391655/.
Walczyńska-Dragon, Karolina, et al. “Correlation between TMD and Cervical Spine Pain and Mobility: Is the Whole Body Balance TMJ Related?” BioMed Research International, Hindawi Publishing Corporation, 2014, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4090505/.
The jaw allows the host to chew, speak, and move while being stabilized by the surrounding muscles that help the jaw structure. The other surrounding muscles that support the jaw are the neck muscles when food is consumed and swallowed. The lower jaw has joints on each side that connect to the upper part of the skull, while the surrounding muscles provide the motor function to the jaw. To that point, normal wear and tear or various factors can not only affect the joints and the surrounding muscles, but they can cause overlapping pain profiles to the tendons, organs, and jaw muscles that may potentially affect a person’s quality of life. Today’s article examines the lateral pterygoid muscle, how TMJ dysfunction and trigger points affect this muscle, and ways to manage TMJ dysfunction and trigger points in the jaw. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in musculoskeletal treatments to aid individuals suffering from trigger point pain associated with TMJ dysfunction affecting the lateral pterygoid muscle. We also guide our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We ensure to find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Jimenez DC observes this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
What Is The Lateral Pterygoid Muscle
Have you heard popping sounds in your jaw when you open or close your mouth? Does your jaw feel stiff, and the pain travels down the neck? Does your jaw lock up, causing difficulty for you to open or close your mouth? Some of these symptom overlap with pain associated with the lateral pterygoid muscle. As part of the mastication muscles, the lateral pterygoid muscle is also a craniomandibular muscle that has a crucial role in the inferior temporal region. The lateral pterygoid muscle works together with the medial pterygoid muscle to provide functionality to the mandible or the lower jaw. The lateral pterygoid muscle also has nerves that branch off the trigeminal nerve and sends information to the brain. This information causes the muscles to move and function when food is consumed; however, when injuries or traumatic events affect the lateral pterygoid, it can disrupt the lower jaw structure and the surrounding muscles.
How TMJ Dysfunction & Trigger Points Affect The Lateral Pterygoid
When the lateral pterygoid is affected by TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction, studies reveal that many individuals often experience pain around the jaw causing limited jaw movement and pain in the lateral pterygoid muscles. When the lateral pterygoid muscles become overused due to excessive chewing or by traumatic forces that affect the jaw, it can cause the muscle fibers of the lateral pterygoid to develop tiny knots known as trigger points to affect the jawline. Trigger points cause pain symptoms associated with other chronic issues that cause jaw pain. When trigger points affect the lateral pterygoid, it can develop discomfort and pain in TMJ dysfunction.
According to Dr. Janet G. Travell, M.D., many people with severe pain in their jaws may have myofascial pain syndrome from musculoskeletal disorders caused by active trigger points in the lateral pterygoid muscle. Since the lateral pterygoid is potentially involved with trigger points associated with TMJ dysfunction, studies reveal that the lateral pterygoid muscle may suffer from muscle atrophy while correlating with disc displacement associated with TMJ dysfunction. TMJ dysfunction is when the surrounding muscles and ligaments around the lower jaw are irritated from active trigger points. When a person suffers from TMJ dysfunction, the pterygoid muscles become stiff and cause pain-related symptoms affecting the jaw and the surrounding oral-facial region.
Jaw Pain & TMJ Dysfunction-Video
Have you been experiencing pain along your jawline? Do your jaw muscles feel stiff when your open or close your mouth? Have you heard popping sounds when you open your jaw, and it hurts? Many of these symptoms are associated with TMJ dysfunction affecting the lateral pterygoid muscle. The video above explains how TMJ disorder and jaw pain affect the body. Studies reveal that the activities of the lateral pterygoid muscle allow movement to the jaw for the host; however, when factors begin to affect the jaw and the lateral pterygoid muscle, it may lead to derangement and disc displacement in the TMJ. TMJ dysfunction associated with trigger points in the jaw may be combined with other factors that cause pain to the jaw and the rest of the body. This is known as somato-visceral pain, where the muscle affects the corresponding organ. TMJ dysfunction associated with trigger points is complex and challenging to diagnose since trigger points often mimic other chronic symptoms that may be potentially involved. Since the lateral pterygoid muscle has sensory-motor functions in the jaw, when the muscle becomes sensitive, those neuron signals become hypersensitive and cause disorganized muscular activation to the jaw; thus, determining factors in TMD (temporomandibular disorders) make an appearance. Luckily there are ways to manage TMJ dysfunction associated with trigger pain in the jaw from affecting anyone.
Managing TMJ Dysfunction & Trigger Pain In The Jaw
When a person is experiencing pain symptoms in the jaw from TMJ dysfunction associated with trigger point pain, many try to find various treatments to minimize the pain. Since trigger point pain in the jaw can cause referred pain associated with toothaches and tension-type headaches, the pain that a person is feeling can be confusing when there is no physical alteration. To that point, many people would take over-the-counter medicine to dull the pain. However, those who want to manage pain without medication can go to a musculoskeletal specialist that their primary doctor refers to, who can come up with a treatment plan catered to that person. Many musculoskeletal specialists, like chiropractors, can obtain the patient’s information on where they feel pain during the examination. Afterward, chiropractors can devise a solution through clinical thinking before applying the treatment to the patient’s pain. Some of the various techniques that a chiropractor utilizes for an individual dealing with jaw pain associated with trigger points include:
Stretch and spray: Where the lateral muscle is stretched and sprayed with a coolant to alleviate the trigger points.
Cervical spinal manipulation: Spinal adjustment to the cervical spine to loosen up stiff muscles surrounding the neck and lower jaw.
Heat compression: A hot pack is placed on the jaw to relax the muscles.
When chiropractors utilize these techniques on the trigger points affecting the lateral pterygoid, it may potentially alleviate TMJ dysfunction symptoms associated with trigger points.
Conclusion
The lateral pterygoid is part of the mastication muscles that work with the medial pterygoid muscle to stabilize the jaw and provide motor function when the host is chewing or speaking. When the lateral pterygoid muscle becomes overused through excessive chewing or being affected by traumatic factors can cause the development of pain symptoms associated with trigger points. Trigger points are tiny knots in the muscle that can cause referred pain to different locations in the body. When this happens, many individuals suffer from other chronic conditions associated with trigger points. One of them is TMJ dysfunction, where the surrounding muscles in the lower jaw become irritated and can make the jaw lock up. Fortunately, various treatments exist for many individuals to relieve trigger point pain associated with TMJ dysfunction affecting their jaws and help prevent the associated symptoms from progressing further.
References
Litko, Monika, et al. “Correlation between the Lateral Pterygoid Muscle Attachment Type and Temporomandibular Joint Disc Position in Magnetic Resonance Imaging.” Dento Maxillo Facial Radiology, The British Institute of Radiology., Oct. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5595028/.
Liu, Meng-Qi, et al. “Functional Changes of the Lateral Pterygoid Muscle in Patients with Temporomandibular Disorders: A Pilot Magnetic Resonance Images Texture Study.” Chinese Medical Journal, Wolters Kluwer Health, 5 Mar. 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7065862/.
Lopes, Sérgio Lúcio Pereira de Castro, et al. “Lateral Pterygoid Muscle Volume and Migraine in Patients with Temporomandibular Disorders.” Imaging Science in Dentistry, Korean Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, Mar. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4362986/.
Rathee, Manu, and Prachi Jain. “Anatomy, Head and Neck, Lateral Pterygoid Muscle.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 29 Oct. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549799/.
Spinal disc deterioration from aging is normal, but health issues or injuries can advance the degenerative process. Disc protrusions are related to herniated discs but are the mildest form of the condition and are a common form of spinal disc deterioration that can cause neck and back issues. However, individuals may have a small protruding disc that can go undetected unless it irritates or compresses the surrounding nerves. Chiropractic care, decompression, and massage therapy can realign the disc back into position, relieving discomfort and pain.
Disc Protrusion
A disc is like a sturdy soft rubber shock absorber/cushion with added gel inside. The gel acts as a shock absorber. When the gel begins to protrude out slightly, this is a disc protrusion. Once a protruding disc begins to develop, it usually remains in that position. The disc can sometimes reabsorb on its own and realign back into position, but there is no way of knowing that will happen or how long it will take. With age and/or injuries, the body’s parts change. The spine’s discs dehydrate and lose elasticity weakening the discs and making them more vulnerable to herniation stages:
First Stage
Following natural weakening can be classified as a disc protrusion when the disc’s core begins pushing into the spinal column.
Disc protrusions can be tiny or push out an entire side of the disc.
Second Stage
Disc deterioration often consists of a bulging disc when the core pushes out farther around the circumference beyond the disc’s outer layer, called the annulus fibrosus, creating the telltale bulge.
A bulging disc involves more than 180 degrees of the disc’s circumference.
Third Stage
The third stage is a herniated disc, meaning the disc’s outer wall has torn, allowing the inner gel to leak out, usually irritating the surrounding nerves.
Fourth Stage
The fourth stage is sequestration, a herniated disc in which a piece of the nucleus breaks free of the vertebral disc fragments and falls into the spinal canal.
Types
A disc protrusion is one type of disc herniation that pushes out but remains connected. Different types compress and irritate the discs differently and produce various symptoms, including:
Paracentral
This is the most common, where the disc protrusion jams the space between the central canal and the foramen.
Central
This is where the disc protrusion impinges into the spinal canal, with or without spinal cord compression.
Foraminal
The disc intrudes into the foramen, the space through which nerve roots branch off the spinal cord and exit the vertebrae.
Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Chiropractic Care
Individuals with a disc protrusion can have symptoms similar to sciatica, which includes back, buttock, and leg discomfort, numbness, and pain sensations.
Treatment for disc protrusion will be based on the individual’s symptoms.
A chiropractor will take a detailed medical history and perform a physical examination.
A spinal MRI test could be ordered depending on the injury or condition.
A customized treatment plan will be developed to fit the individual’s medical needs.
Most disc protrusions improve after a few weeks of rest, avoiding strenuous activities, activity modification, an anti-inflammatory diet, and gentle exercises that the chiropractic team will provide.
True Spinal Decompression
References
Fardon, David F et al. “Lumbar disc nomenclature: version 2.0: Recommendations of the combined task forces of the North American Spine Society, the American Society of Spine Radiology and the American Society of Neuroradiology.” The spine journal: official journal of the North American Spine Society vol. 14,11 (2014): 2525-45. doi:10.1016/j.spinee.2014.04.022
Mysliwiec, Lawrence Walter, et al. “MSU classification for herniated lumbar discs on MRI: toward developing objective criteria for surgical selection.” The European spine journal: official publication of the European Spine Society, the European Spinal Deformity Society, and the European Section of the Cervical Spine Research Society vol. 19,7 (2010): 1087-93. doi:10.1007/s00586-009-1274-4
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