Are you or someone you know experiencing the symptoms typically associated with Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders and constant pain? It might be time to see Dr. Kelley Mingus. Dr. Mingus is both highly skilled and experienced in addressing and treating TMJ disorders and brings a unique, holistic approach to headache and TMJ pain management. She wants to ensure that each of her patients receives the most effective, personalized care possible for their unique TMJ situation. Let’s explore what TMJ is, as well as the various treatments and methods that Dr. Mingus uses to provide relief.
What is TMJ?
The Temporomandibular Joint is located on the sides of the head where the skull joins and is composed of rigid, moving components. It allows us to close, open, and move our mouths, making it crucial in speaking, chewing, and swallowing. Sometimes, however, this joint becomes dysfunctional.
When the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ for short, does not function as it should, this issue is known as a temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD. There are a number of symptoms associated with TMJ disorders, including headache, neck pain, earache, tinnitus, jaw pain, jaw locking, limited range of motion in the jaw, shoulder pain, and chronic fatigue.
Treatments for TMJ
There are a number of treatments available to help you manage the symptoms of your TMJ. One of the most common is physical therapy or exercise programs. These programs focus on exercises specifically designed for your TMJ and are used to increase the strength and mobility of your structures, thereby reducing your symptoms.
Another treatment for TMJ is counseling, which is aimed at helping you identify patterns of behaviors that can trigger your symptoms and teaching you how to avoid or reduce your reaction to those triggers. Many therapists offer relaxation techniques, biofeedback training, cognitive behavioral therapy, and medications that can help you achieve this goal.
Devices are also a common TMJ treatment. These devices are typically worn in your mouth, and they work to correct joint position and reduce the jaw muscle strain and pain. Devices are usually custom-made by a dentist or orthodontist to fit your mouth specifically, making them a personalized treatment option.
Dr. Kelley Mingus’ Approach to Treating TMJ
Dr. Kelley Mingus takes a holistic approach to treating headaches and TMJ pain. This means that she focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying factors that may be contributing to your pain. Dr. Mingus works to find kinder, gentler ways of treating the head, neck, and jaw areas, while also addressing the mental and emotional aspects of headache and TMJ disorders.
Dr. Mingus offers a number of modalities for headache and TMJ pain management that are personalized for each patient’s unique situation. These modalities include enhanced breathing techniques, osteopathic and craniosacral manipulations, nutritional counseling and supplementation, chiropractic care, soft tissue mobilization, and stress reduction practices.
Using her extensive knowledge of headache and TMJ pain management, as well as her strong belief in integrative health, Dr. Mingus is able to create an effective, customized treatment plan for her patients. This plan is designed to not only relieve their pain but also to improve the overall function of their head, neck, and jaw areas, as well as provide lasting results.
Conclusion
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the symptoms of TMJ, it is important to see a qualified healthcare professional. Dr. Kelley Mingus is both highly skilled and experienced in addressing and treating TMJ disorders and uses a unique, holistic approach to headache and TMJ pain management. With a variety of treatments available, she can create personalized plans that help her patients get their pain under control and improve their overall function for years to come.