TMJ: If you live in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, or Bradenton, Florida, and are struggling with jaw pain, popping, clicking, or difficulty chewing, you may be dealing with a common but often misunderstood condition: TMJ. TMJ dysfunction (short for temporomandibular joint dysfunction) doesn’t just affect your jaw—it can cause headaches, ear pressure, neck pain, facial tension, dizziness, and even contribute to sleep disturbances and emotional stress.
At Lavender Family Chiropractic in Sarasota, we specialize in a gentle, precise, and targeted approach to resolving TMJ pain by addressing a frequently overlooked root cause—misalignment in the upper cervical spine.
What Is TMJ Disorder? Understanding the Problem Behind the Pain
TMJ disorder refers to dysfunction of the temporomandibular joints, which are the small but powerful joints connecting your lower jaw (mandible) to your skull near the ears. These joints allow you to talk, chew, yawn, and move your jaw in multiple directions.
When the TMJ becomes misaligned or experiences abnormal stress, the symptoms can be wide-ranging and frustrating, including:
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing the mouth
- Limited range of motion in the jaw
- Earaches or a sensation of fullness in the ear
- Tension headaches or migraines
- Pain while chewing or talking
- Neck and upper shoulder tension
- Facial pain and muscle tightness
- Locking of the jaw open or closed
- Sleep disturbances or teeth grinding (bruxism)
The Missing Link: How Upper Cervical Misalignment Causes TMJ Dysfunction
At Lavender Family Chiropractic, our approach to TMJ relief goes far beyond traditional bite splints, pain medications, or muscle relaxers. We focus on the upper cervical spine, where subtle misalignments can directly impact jaw function.
The Connection Between the Neck and Jaw
- The trigeminal nerve, responsible for facial sensation and jaw movement, passes through the brainstem, which sits just above the atlas vertebra.
- The muscles that control jaw movement (like the masseter, temporalis, and pterygoid muscles) receive neurological signals from the upper cervical region.
- Misalignment in the C1 or C2 vertebrae can disrupt normal neurological communication and alter muscle tone, leading to asymmetrical jaw motion and chronic tension.
- This neurological imbalance can cause one side of the jaw to work harder than the other, wearing down cartilage and joint space—eventually causing pain, inflammation, and popping or clicking sounds.
Upper Cervical Chiropractic for TMJ: A Gentle, Effective Solution Without Cracking or Twisting
Our clinic in Sarasota uses Advanced Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care—a unique technique that involves no twisting, cracking, or popping. Instead, we rely on a highly precise correction of the atlas (C1) based on your individual spinal anatomy.
The Lavender Family Chiropractic TMJ Protocol
- 3D CBCT Imaging
We use Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) to create a detailed, 3D view of your upper neck and skull alignment. - Functional Nervous System Scans
Using paraspinal infrared thermography with the Tytron scanner, we measure temperature imbalances along your spine that indicate neurological stress. - Custom Atlas Correction
We deliver a gentle, specific correction using the Advanced HIO Knee-Chest technique—no popping, twisting, or cracking involved. - Post-Correction Care
We monitor your progress through follow-up scans and symptom evaluation to ensure that your atlas correction holds and your jaw function continues to improve.
Common Causes and Risk Factors for TMJ Dysfunction
TMJ dysfunction can have multiple triggers, including:
- Whiplash injuries or car accidents
- Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching during sleep)
- Poor posture and forward head carriage
- Neck or head trauma, even from years ago
- Dental work or bite misalignment
- Chronic stress
- Improper sleeping position
- Orthodontic changes that shift jaw positioning
Why Choose Lavender Family Chiropractic for TMJ Care in Sarasota, Bradenton, and Lakewood Ranch?
Our team—Dr. Rusty Lavender, Dr. Jacob Temple, and Dr. Will Guzinski—is known throughout Southwest Florida for providing unmatched upper cervical chiropractic care. We serve patients from all over Sarasota County and Manatee County, including:
- Sarasota
- Bradenton
- Lakewood Ranch
- Parrish
- Ellenton
- Venice
- Osprey
- Punta Gorda
- Myakka City
- St. Petersburg
- Siesta Key
- Longboat Key
- Lido Key
What Sets Us Apart?
- We treat the root cause, not just symptoms.
- We use state-of-the-art technology (3D CBCT and thermography).
- We offer a gentle, personalized approach that avoids harsh adjustments.
- We’ve helped thousands of patients across Sarasota and beyond reclaim pain-free living and jaw function.
Real Patient Testimonials: TMJ Recovery in Sarasota, Florida
“I dealt with jaw pain for over 10 years. I tried night guards, jaw massages, even Botox. Nothing worked long-term. After seeing Dr. Lavender and getting upper cervical care, my jaw no longer locks, and I don’t grind my teeth at night. It’s a miracle.”
– Lauren S., Sarasota
“My dentist told me my bite was the issue, but no one looked at my neck. After my first correction at Lavender Family Chiropractic, the clicking in my jaw went away completely. I can eat and yawn again without pain.”
– Brian M., Lakewood Ranch
Top 15 FAQs About TMJ and Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care
1. Can upper cervical chiropractic help with TMJ?
Yes! By realigning the top of the spine, upper cervical care restores balance to the jaw muscles and nerves.
2. Is this safe if I’ve had dental work or braces?
Absolutely. We work alongside dental care, not against it, and many patients with orthodontic history find relief through upper cervical care.
3. Do you pop or twist the neck?
No. Our adjustments are precise, gentle, and non-invasive—no cracking or twisting involved.
4. How long does it take to see results?
Many patients feel improvement within 1–3 visits. Long-term resolution often takes several weeks of consistent care.
5. Can TMJ cause ear pressure or tinnitus?
Yes. TMJ dysfunction often affects ear canals and cranial nerve signaling. Many patients report reduced ear symptoms after upper cervical care.
6. Is this covered by insurance?
Our office is out of network with insurance. Many of our patients receive a superbill to submit to their insurance for reimbursement based on their coverage. We offer many different payment options as well as finance options.
7. Can stress cause TMJ pain?
Yes. Chronic stress increases muscle tension in the jaw and neck, worsening TMJ symptoms.
8. Do I need a referral from my dentist or doctor?
No referral is needed. You can contact us directly to schedule a new patient consultation.
9. How do I know if my neck is causing my TMJ pain?
We’ll perform a full assessment using CBCT imaging and thermography to identify if an upper cervical misalignment is contributing.
10. Is this effective for people who grind their teeth at night?
Yes. By restoring neurological balance, many patients notice they stop clenching or grinding while sleeping.
11. Do you offer consultations in Lakewood Ranch or Bradenton?
Yes. Our office is conveniently located near both areas and easily accessible to patients from across Southwest Florida.
12. What if I’ve had a previous TMJ surgery or jaw injury?
We have helped many patients post-surgery or post-injury regain jaw mobility and reduce pain.
13. Is this approach good for kids or teenagers with TMJ?
Yes. We offer gentle care for all ages, especially teens with post-orthodontic or sports-related jaw pain.
14. How do I book an appointment?
Call our office at (941) 243-3729 or visit www.chiropractorsarasotaflorida.com to request an appointment.
15. Where is your office located?
Our clinic is located at 5899 Whitfield Ave Ste 107, Sarasota, FL 34243.
Take the Next Step Toward TMJ Relief Today
If you’re in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, or anywhere in the surrounding areas of Southwest Florida and struggling with TMJ dysfunction, jaw pain, or related symptoms, we invite you to experience the difference of upper cervical chiropractic care.
At Lavender Family Chiropractic, our mission is to help you heal at the root—not mask symptoms. We combine world-class technology with personalized care to get you results that last.
Lavender Family Chiropractic in Sarasota Florida offers complimentary consultations to learn more about you. Click the link below!
https://intake.chirohd.com/new-patient-scheduling/724/lavender-family-chiropractic
Visit our Website!
To learn more about us go to http://www.chiropractorsarasotaflorida.com
We also service Bradenton, Parrish, Ellenton, Ruskin, Venice, Tampa, St. Pete, Osprey, Longboat, Lakewood Ranch, Myakka City.
If you are not local, visit www.uccnearme.com to find a doctor in your area.
📍 Address: 5899 Whitfield Ave Ste 107, Sarasota, FL 34243
📞 Phone: (941) 243-3729
📲 Instagram: @lavenderfamilysrq
🎥 TikTok: @drrustylavender
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