TMJ / JAW PAIN
Anatomy & Physiology:
The TMJ is a hinge and gliding joint connecting the jawbone (mandible) to the temporal bone of the skull. It is supported by ligaments, articular cartilage, a fibrocartilaginous disc, and surrounding muscles like the masseter, temporalis, and pterygoids. Proper joint function allows chewing, speaking, and yawning without pain.
Common Conditions & Injuries: Common Diagnoses:
• Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD)
• Disc displacement with or without reduction
• Jaw muscle strain or myofascial pain
Common Causes of Injury :
• Teeth grinding or jaw clenching (bruxism)
• Jaw trauma (direct blow or whiplash)
• Poor posture leading to cervical and jaw misalignment
• Accidents or collisions (such as car accidents, sports tackles, or falls)
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Jaw pain, clicking, or popping
Difficulty opening the mouth fully
Ear pain, headaches, or facial muscle tension
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Symptoms often persist due to muscle imbalances, unresolved joint dysfunction, stress-induced bruxism, or cervical spine misalignment. Poor postural habits and lack of targeted therapy can prolong dysfunction.
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At NorCal Spine & Sport, we utilize the most comprehensive care in the area to provide an optimal approach to treatment. Our goals of relief, freedom, and balance allows us to deliver a functional treatment that focuses on stability and mobility. By combining soft tissue therapy, electro-shockwave therapy, Class IV laser therapy, rehabilitation therapy, chiropractic care, and much more, NorCal Spine & Sport continues to deliver cutting edge treatment that provides effective relief for all types of injuries.
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Synovial joints, such as the shoulder, hip, knee, and spine, exist throughout the body and are highly mobile joints characterized by a fluid-filled joint capsule, articular cartilage, and synovial fluid that reduces friction and nourishes the joint. Their structural components include ligaments, tendons, and muscles that support joint function.
Joint stability is critical to preventing injury and maintaining alignment, while mobility allows for proper movement through functional ranges. An imbalance—such as hypermobility without adequate stability, or restricted mobility from tight or inflamed tissues—can lead to pain, compensatory patterns, and chronic dysfunction. Addressing biomechanical integrity by improving movement quality (mobility), neuromuscular control, and joint alignment supports long-term recovery and resilience in musculoskeletal health as well as overall function.
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Soft tissue or myofascial therapy (Active Release Therapy (ART), Graston Therapy, Cupping Therapy)
Corrective and strengthening exercises
Postural and ergonomic education
Orthotic support or gait training
Stress management and lifestyle modification
By utilizing these treatment techniques, our goal is to provide movement (mobility) to previously restricted regions that have led to compensatory patterns and dysfunction. These non-invasive techniques also stimulate blood flow, promote cellular regeneration, breakdown scar tissue and reduce inflammation. The goal of our approach is to restore healthy movement patterns that will allow the body to continue to heal and ultimately prevent further injury.
Shockwave therapy delivers targeted acoustic waves deep into tissues. This non-invasive technique stimulates blood flow, promotes cellular regeneration, breaks down scar tissue, and reduces inflammation. It is especially effective in treating chronic soft tissue injuries and stubborn pain conditions where healing has stalled.
