Expert: Robert A. Arnone, DC - 7/23/2007

Question
I have had problems with TMJ to the point where it has been causing disturbances that feel like panic attacks.  I have been trying to stretch my neck and this helps but it also feels like the pain is being aggravated at times, it has even led to pains in my bowels lately.

I have an appointment with a chiropractor on Wednesday.  Could you give me some more information about TMJ? It is hard to google honest information about health these days.  I know it is a fairly "new" syndrome, and it was not until recently that I discovered that I had these symptoms and what they meant.  Do the neck muscles and jaw muscles lock up with other muscles in the body? (for example the shoulders?)

sincerely
ryan

Answer
go to  www.upcspine.com and read the TMJ article.  The upper cervical spine is closely related, and I highly recommend seeing an upper cervical doctor of chiropractic in your area.  You can also locate a doctor on that website as well.  You are better off finding a doctor who does only upper cervical and not a bunch of different techniques.  I am seeing a few TMJ patients in my clinic right now and they all have tight musculature in the neck and shoulder region.  Most of those patients showed immediate improvement while 1 of those patients is healing much slower.  Let me know if I can be of further assistance to you.
RADC