Treating TMJ

Acupuncture I feel is one of the best ways to treat TMJ. There are really not many effective ways to treat it with conventional western medicine. Because of this we get a good number of referrals from western docs for this common issue. Often there is neck tightness associated with TMJ, so that needs to be addressed as well. Acupuncture points in the area as well as some light cupping can be very effective is releasing the pain from the joint. Of course the root cause of this issues is most often the holding of stress in the neck and jaw, and usually involves grinding of the teeth while sleeping or even during the day often unconsciously. Because of this, we will often prescribe Chinese herbs to relax the jaw before bed (or even during the day). I like xiao yao san for doing this, or if sharp pains are involved tong qiao huo xue tong works well.