Posted on26 June 2025,in

Introduction to TMJ and Jaw Pain

TMJ and Jaw Pain: Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, commonly known as TMJ, is a complex condition that affects millions of people worldwide. TMJ involves pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles controlling jaw movement. Many people with TMJ experience chronic discomfort, jaw clicking, limited range of motion, headaches, ear pain, and even dizziness. For those suffering from TMJ and jaw pain, finding long-lasting relief can feel like a never-ending search.

At Lavender Family Chiropractic, we specialize in upper cervical chiropractic care that focuses on the alignment of the atlas (C1 vertebra) and its profound impact on the entire musculoskeletal and nervous system. For people living in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, and surrounding areas like Parrish, Ellenton, Venice, Osprey, Punta Gorda, St. Petersburg, Siesta Key, Longboat Key, Lido Key, and Myakka City, we offer hope and solutions that target the root cause of TMJ, not just the symptoms.

This blog will dive deep into TMJ, its symptoms, how atlas misalignment contributes to TMJ and neck pain, and how upper cervical chiropractic care at Lavender Family Chiropractic can provide lasting relief. We will also explore the intricate relationship between the jaw, neck, and nervous system to help you understand why correcting the upper cervical spine can make a life-changing difference.

Many TMJ sufferers go through years of treatments that provide temporary or incomplete relief. Common options like night guards, pain relievers, muscle relaxers, physical therapy, and even dental work may only scratch the surface of the real issue. The upper cervical spine is often overlooked, yet it is key to the structural balance of the head, neck, and jaw. Upper cervical chiropractic care can make a profound difference by correcting misalignments that are frequently the underlying cause.

Living with TMJ can severely impact your quality of life. Everyday activities like eating, speaking, yawning, and even smiling can become painful. The constant discomfort can lead to emotional distress, anxiety, and frustration, as many traditional treatments offer only partial or short-term relief. It is essential to understand that the jaw does not function in isolation—it is part of a larger biomechanical and neurological system that starts at the top of the spine. Addressing the alignment of the upper cervical spine can help resolve the underlying cause and provide lasting, natural relief.

TMJ and Jaw Pain: What is TMJ?

The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) are the hinge joints connecting your jawbone to your skull. These joints allow you to talk, chew, yawn, and move your jaw smoothly. When the TMJs become misaligned, inflamed, or dysfunctional, the result is Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD), commonly shortened to TMJ.

When the joint does not function properly, it can cause a domino effect of symptoms that reach beyond the jaw itself. The misalignment can cause referred pain into the neck, ears, shoulders, and even lead to systemic issues like headaches and balance disorders.

Common Causes of TMJ

TMJ can result from a combination of factors, including physical injury, habitual behavior, and structural imbalances. Some of the most common causes include:

Jaw Injury or Trauma: Car accidents, sports injuries, falls, or even an accidental bump to the jaw can cause joint damage, dislocation, or muscle strain. Trauma often shifts the delicate balance of the TMJ and sets the stage for chronic dysfunction. Many TMJ patients at Lavender Family Chiropractic recall a car accident, sports collision, or dental trauma as the triggering event for their symptoms.
Misalignment of the Jaw or Teeth: Improper bite alignment (malocclusion) can cause the jaw to work harder to close properly, which strains the TMJ over time. Braces, missing teeth, or dental work that changes your bite can contribute to this misalignment. Even minor dental discrepancies can create long-term jaw stress.
Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Chronic grinding or clenching exerts excessive pressure on the jaw joints, which can wear down the cartilage, inflame the joint, and create pain that radiates into the neck and head. Many people are unaware that they grind their teeth during sleep, yet wake up with jaw soreness, headaches, or facial pain.
Arthritis: Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other degenerative joint diseases can break down the cartilage within the TMJ, causing pain, limited mobility, and joint sounds such as popping or grinding. Inflammatory arthritis can accelerate joint degeneration and increase sensitivity.
Stress Leading to Jaw Clenching: Emotional stress often leads to involuntary clenching of the jaw during the day or night. Over time, this habit fatigues the jaw muscles and overworks the joint, worsening TMJ symptoms. Stress management is crucial, but structural correction is often needed to resolve the root problem.
Poor Posture: Forward head posture, commonly associated with desk work, smartphone use, and poor ergonomics, alters the alignment of the spine and jaw. This can increase tension in the TMJ, especially when the head tilts forward for extended periods. When posture is compromised, the lower jaw often compensates, exacerbating dysfunction.

Understanding the specific cause of TMJ is crucial in developing an effective care plan. At Lavender Family Chiropractic, we focus on identifying the underlying structural imbalances that are often overlooked. Each patient receives a tailored assessment that includes detailed postural analysis, upper cervical evaluation, and advanced 3D imaging.

TMJ Symptoms

People suffering from TMJ may experience a wide variety of symptoms, including:

Jaw Pain or Tenderness: The jaw may ache during chewing, yawning, or even when at rest. This pain often radiates to the ears, neck, and face. Some patients experience sharp, stabbing pain that worsens with jaw movement, while others report a constant dull ache.
Clicking, Popping, or Grating Sounds: Audible noises when opening or closing the mouth can signal joint displacement, cartilage damage, or muscular imbalance. This is often accompanied by discomfort or locking of the jaw. Jaw noises may come and go, but they typically indicate that the joint is not tracking properly.
Difficulty Chewing or Sudden Uncomfortable Bite: TMJ misalignment may cause the jaw to deviate, making chewing difficult or causing the bite to feel “off.” Many people notice that food feels uneven when chewing, or that their teeth do not make contact correctly.
Limited Ability to Open the Mouth Fully: Some patients can only open their mouth partway, which affects eating, speaking, and oral hygiene. This can create daily frustration and lead to anxiety in social situations where eating or talking is required.
Ear Pain or Fullness Without Infection: The proximity of the TMJ to the ear often causes referred pain, earaches, or a sensation of fullness, even when no ear infection is present. Some patients describe feeling pressure inside the ear or hearing muffled sounds.
Headaches and Migraines: TMJ dysfunction can lead to chronic tension headaches and migraines, especially when muscle tension extends into the neck and scalp. Patients often find that their headaches worsen when chewing or clenching the jaw.
Neck Pain and Stiffness: Compensation patterns from TMJ dysfunction frequently strain the muscles of the neck and upper back. Many patients feel persistent tightness or restricted neck motion, which can lead to poor posture and further exacerbate the issue.
Facial Pain: A deep, persistent ache may spread across the cheeks, temples, and jawline. This can sometimes be mistaken for sinus pain or dental issues.
Dizziness and Balance Issues: TMJ dysfunction can disturb proprioception (body awareness) and balance, leading to lightheadedness, unsteadiness, and vertigo. Some people report difficulty walking straight, a floating sensation, or episodes of room-spinning vertigo.

Left untreated, these symptoms can progressively worsen, reducing the ability to chew, speak, and live comfortably. Many TMJ sufferers feel like they are out of options after cycling through mouthguards, medications, and physical therapy with limited improvement. This is why addressing the structural alignment of the upper cervical spine can be life-changing.

What is Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care?

Upper cervical chiropractic care is a highly specialized branch of chiropractic that focuses on correcting misalignments of the top two vertebrae of the spine: the atlas (C1) and the axis (C2). These vertebrae are located at the junction where the skull meets the spine and play a critical role in protecting the brainstem, supporting the head, and ensuring balanced posture throughout the body.

Upper cervical care does not involve twisting, popping, or aggressive manipulation. Instead, it is based on gentle, precise adjustments that are carefully calculated using advanced imaging and analysis.

Key Features of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care

3D CBCT Imaging: We use state-of-the-art 3D Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scans to visualize the upper cervical spine in incredible detail. This allows us to identify even the smallest misalignments that may be contributing to TMJ and related symptoms.
Paraspinal Infrared Thermography: This non-invasive technology helps us measure heat patterns along the spine, indicating areas of nerve irritation and inflammation. It allows us to track your progress and determine exactly when an adjustment is needed.
Gentle, Non-Invasive Adjustments: Our upper cervical adjustments are incredibly gentle and precise. Many patients are surprised by how light the touch is and how profound the results can be.
Individualized Care Plans: Every patient at Lavender Family Chiropractic receives a customized care plan based on their unique spinal structure, symptoms, and goals.

Upper cervical chiropractic care works by restoring proper alignment to the atlas and axis, which allows the nervous system to function optimally. When the head is balanced correctly on the spine, the muscles of the jaw, neck, and shoulders can relax, inflammation can subside, and the body can begin to heal.

How Atlas Misalignment Can Cause TMJ and Neck Pain

The atlas is the topmost vertebra in your spine, sitting directly under your skull and supporting your head. Because of its position, it plays a crucial role in balancing your head, maintaining proper nerve function, and aligning the entire spine.

Why the Atlas Matters

The atlas supports the weight of your head, about 10-12 pounds. Even tiny misalignments can cause the head to shift slightly out of balance.
This shift can place uneven strain on muscles, ligaments, and nerves that control jaw movement and neck function.
The upper cervical spine houses the brainstem and critical nerve pathways that regulate jaw muscles and facial sensation.
Misalignment of the atlas can lead to increased tension in the muscles controlling the TMJ and can cause neurological interference affecting pain perception and muscle control.

Research Supporting the Atlas-TMJ Connection

Several studies show that correcting atlas misalignment improves TMJ symptoms, reduces pain, and restores jaw function. Upper cervical chiropractic care focuses precisely on this vital vertebra, making it a powerful treatment for TMJ and related neck pain.

What Is Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care?

Upper cervical chiropractic is a specialized form of chiropractic focused exclusively on the top two bones in the neck—the atlas (C1) and the axis (C2). Unlike general chiropractic that may involve multiple joints and techniques, upper cervical care is:

Highly precise: Using advanced imaging technology, including 3D CBCT scans, to detect tiny misalignments invisible on regular X-rays.
Gentle: Adjustments are performed with minimal force, no popping, twisting, or cracking.
Focused on the nervous system: By correcting atlas misalignment, the nervous system function improves, helping the body heal naturally.

At Lavender Family Chiropractic, we utilize state-of-the-art 3D CBCT imaging to get an exact picture of your upper cervical spine. This allows us to customize adjustments to your specific anatomy, optimizing results and long-term stability.

How Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care Helps TMJ

By correcting atlas misalignment, upper cervical chiropractic care can:

Reduce tension in jaw muscles and neck muscles
Restore proper nerve function controlling the TMJ
Improve jaw mechanics and joint alignment
Decrease headaches, neck pain, and facial pain
Improve posture and reduce compensatory stress on the jaw
Help patients avoid invasive treatments or long-term medication

Because of its gentle and precise nature, upper cervical care is safe for all ages and can be especially helpful for those who have not found relief with other TMJ treatments.

Why Choose Lavender Family Chiropractic for TMJ and Upper Cervical Care?

At Lavender Family Chiropractic, we are proud to be Sarasota’s leading upper cervical chiropractic office specializing in TMJ, jaw pain, neck pain, and complex neurological conditions. Here’s what sets us apart:

Expertise: Dr. Rusty Lavender, Dr. Jacob Temple, and Dr. Will Guzinski are highly trained upper cervical doctors with years of experience helping TMJ patients.
Advanced Technology: We use 3D CBCT scans and functional nervous system assessments with Tytron technology to precisely identify atlas misalignments and neurological imbalances.
Personalized Care: Every patient receives a thorough evaluation and a customized treatment plan tailored to their unique anatomy and symptoms.
Gentle Adjustments: Our adjustments are specific, gentle, and focused on long-term correction without discomfort or manipulation.
Comprehensive Support: We provide education, lifestyle advice, and ongoing care to help maintain your results and prevent recurrence.
Serving the Sarasota Area: We proudly serve Sarasota, Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, Parrish, and surrounding communities.

Patient Success Stories

Many TMJ sufferers come to us feeling frustrated by years of ineffective treatments. After upper cervical care at Lavender Family Chiropractic, patients often report:

Dramatic reduction or elimination of jaw pain
Relief from chronic headaches and neck pain
Improved jaw mobility and function
Better sleep and reduced stress related to TMJ discomfort

Top 15 FAQs About TMJ and Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care

1. What causes TMJ disorder?
TMJ disorder can be caused by jaw injury, arthritis, teeth grinding, poor posture, stress, and often, upper cervical spine misalignment.

2. How is TMJ diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves clinical evaluation of jaw function, symptoms, imaging such as X-rays or CBCT scans, and sometimes referral to dental or medical specialists.

3. Can upper cervical chiropractic care cure TMJ?
While individual results vary, many patients experience significant relief or resolution of TMJ symptoms after correcting atlas misalignment.

4. How long does upper cervical treatment take to work?
Some patients feel improvement after the first adjustment, while others require several weeks of care for lasting results.

5. Is upper cervical chiropractic safe?
Yes, upper cervical adjustments are gentle and safe, with a low risk of side effects.

6. What makes upper cervical care different from regular chiropractic?
Upper cervical chiropractic focuses only on the top two vertebrae and uses precise, gentle adjustments based on advanced imaging.

7. Do I need a referral to see an upper cervical chiropractor?
No referral is necessary; you can schedule a consultation directly with us.

8. Will I need X-rays or scans?
Yes, 3D CBCT scans provide detailed views of your upper cervical spine for precise treatment.

9. Can TMJ cause headaches and neck pain?
Yes, TMJ dysfunction commonly causes referred pain in the head and neck.

10. How many visits will I need?
The number of visits varies by individual but typically ranges from a few weeks to a few months.

11. Will my insurance cover upper cervical care?
We are out of network with insurance but provide superbills for reimbursement. We offer flexible payment options.

12. Can children receive upper cervical care for TMJ?
Yes, upper cervical chiropractic is safe and effective for patients of all ages.

13. Can upper cervical care help teeth grinding?
By relieving muscle tension and nerve interference, upper cervical care often reduces bruxism symptoms.

14. What if I don’t have jaw pain but have neck pain and headaches?
Atlas misalignment can cause these symptoms independently or together with TMJ issues.

15. How do I get started?
Call Lavender Family Chiropractic at (941) 243-3729 or visit www.chiropractorsarasotaflorida.com to schedule your consultation.

Take the First Step Toward Lasting TMJ Relief

If you are tired of living with jaw pain, headaches, neck pain, or TMJ symptoms that limit your quality of life, it’s time to consider a different approach—one that addresses the root cause, not just the symptoms.

At Lavender Family Chiropractic, we combine gentle upper cervical chiropractic care with advanced imaging technology to detect and correct atlas misalignments contributing to TMJ and jaw pain. Our compassionate team is here to guide you every step of the way toward natural healing and restored function.

Don’t wait until your TMJ symptoms worsen. Call us today at (941) 243-3729 or visit our website at www.chiropractorsarasotaflorida.com to schedule your evaluation. Relief is possible, and your journey starts now.

Service Areas We Proudly Serve

Lavender Family Chiropractic is proud to serve patients in Sarasota, Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, Parrish, Venice, Osprey, Ellenton, Punta Gorda, St. Petersburg, Siesta Key, Longboat Key, Lido Key, and Myakka City. Wherever you live in Southwest Florida, expert upper cervical chiropractic care is nearby.