Chiropractors/neck pain

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Question
i have used a chiropractor for many years and i LOVE THAT MAN! but i now live 2 hours away from his office and have been unable to find a suitable replacement.  i am experiencing headaches and inability to pop my neck.  i know i should not be popping it myself but occasionally do so for temporary relief, until time to see my chiropractor again.  i am now having headaches and pain in my ears.  can this be attributed to the problems with my neck, i have been briefly and questionably diagnosed with tmj once in the past for the pain in my ears and i have notice myself grinding my teeth again lately but i don't know why.

Answer
Lana,

Yes, your neck joints and surrounding muscles will refer pain into the ear and into the head.  Self-cracking only sloshes around the joints in your neck that already move well, but does not unlock the really stuck joints.     Even chiropractors cannot adjust their own necks...  Ask that chiropractor to make a referral to someone in your neighborhood.   Gringing your teeth doesn't help this situation, and the irritation to your jaw joints (TemporoMandibularJoints) will also cause neck pain and headaches.  

'Best,

Dr. G

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Scott F. Gillman, DC, DACBSP

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21 Years in practice: I can answer any question regarding chiropractic and sports medicine treatment. Mostly, I can help the unknowing public understand what is safe, valid, reasonable and evidence-based, and what kinds of unscrupulous chiropractors and fraudulent methods to stay away from. I have an advanced specialty degree in Chiropractic Sports Medicine. I have experience treating elite and Olympic athletes.

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