Blog

Blog

Can Chiropractic Care Help with TMJ Pain? Camarata Chiropractic in Chili, NY Can!

Published March 21st, 2025 by Camarata Chiropractic

If you suffer from jaw pain, clicking, popping, limited range of motion, or even frequent headaches and neck tension, you may be dealing with TMJ dysfunction—a condition we see and help patients with every day here at Camarata Chiropractic in Chili, NY.

What Is TMJ?

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. You have one on each side of your head, and they allow your jaw to move smoothly so you can speak, chew, yawn, and function normally. When this joint becomes irritated, inflamed, or misaligned, it leads to a range of symptoms collectively known as TMD (temporomandibular joint dysfunction).

Up to 15% of adults experience TMJ-related issues at some point in their lives—and women are affected more often than men. Many times, this condition is connected to other problems in the spine, especially the cervical spine (neck).

Common Symptoms of TMJ Dysfunction

  • Jaw pain or tenderness

  • Clicking or popping in the jaw

  • Locking of the jaw joint

  • Headaches or migraines

  • Facial pain

  • Neck and shoulder stiffness

  • Difficulty chewing

  • Earaches or a sense of fullness in the ears

  • Forward head posture

The TMJ–Neck Connection

A growing body of research points to a strong relationship between jaw dysfunction and cervical spine misalignment. Studies have shown that TMJ disorders are often accompanied by neck problems, poor posture, and nerve irritation. One study published in the Journal of Oral & Facial Pain found that patients with TMJ had significantly more forward head posture than those without. Another study in Biomed Research International linked TMJ dysfunction to higher levels of neck disability.

This means that addressing spinal alignment, posture, and nerve interference through chiropractic care can have a direct, positive impact on TMJ-related symptoms.

How Chiropractic Can Help

At Camarata Chiropractic & Wellness, Dr. Sam Camarata, Dr. Brian Dickinson and Dr Joe Carroll take a whole-body, holistic approach to TMJ pain. They assess the alignment of the neck and upper spine, the balance and tension of the muscles surrounding the jaw, and the overall posture of the patient. 

Come Experience Jaw Pain Relief in Chili: New Patient Scheduler Online Here!

Chiropractic adjustments to the cervical spine can help:

  • Reduce joint and muscle tension

  • Improve jaw mobility and function

  • Restore proper nerve flow

  • Reduce inflammation

  • Alleviate referred pain in the head, neck, and shoulders

  • Improve posture

We also incorporate SoftWave Therapy, IASTM (fascia release technique), postural correction exercises, and home care recommendations to address the muscular and biomechanical components of TMJ pain.

Co-Management with Other Providers

TMJ dysfunction may also involve the bite and teeth alignment. In certain cases, we work closely with local dentists and oral health providers for collaborative care when needed. Combining dental and chiropractic perspectives can often speed up healing and resolution of symptoms.

Your Next Step

If you or someone you love is dealing with TMJ issues—don’t wait. The longer this condition goes unaddressed, the more it can impact your quality of life. Chiropractic care is a non-invasive, natural approach that can help you feel better and function better without drugs, injections, or surgery.


Contact Us Today

Camarata Chiropractic
Office: 3237 Union St, North Chili, NY 14514
Phone: 585-617-4145
Email: info@camaratachiropractic.com

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more educational content, patient success stories, and wellness tips.

Health is wealth.
Consistency and discipline are the best ways to reach your health and wellness goals. Let’s work together to get you feeling your best.

New Patient Scheduler Online! Click Here! Come Experience TMJ Pain Relief!

Frequently Asked Questions: Chiropractic Care & Jaw (TMJ) Pain

Can chiropractic care help jaw pain or TMJ dysfunction?

Yes. Chiropractic care can help jaw pain and TMJ dysfunction by improving alignment of the spine, jaw, and surrounding joints while reducing muscle tension and nervous system irritation that often contribute to TMJ symptoms.

How is the jaw connected to the neck and spine?

The jaw (temporomandibular joint) is closely connected to the cervical spine, posture, and nervous system. Misalignments in the neck or upper spine can alter jaw mechanics, increase muscle tension, and contribute to pain, clicking, or restricted motion.

What TMJ symptoms can chiropractic care help with?

Chiropractic care may help patients experiencing jaw pain, clicking or popping, headaches, facial pain, ear pressure, difficulty chewing, limited mouth opening, and neck or shoulder tension associated with TMJ dysfunction.

Does a chiropractor adjust the jaw?

In some cases, chiropractors use gentle, specific techniques to address jaw alignment and mobility. Care may also include cervical spine adjustments, soft tissue therapy, posture correction, and home exercises to support jaw function.

Is chiropractic care safe for TMJ pain?

Yes. Chiropractic care is a non-invasive, drug-free approach that focuses on restoring proper joint motion, muscle balance, and nervous system function. Treatment plans are personalized based on each patient’s condition and comfort level.

How long does it take to see results?

Some patients notice improvement within a few visits, while others with chronic TMJ issues may require a longer course of care. Results depend on posture, stress levels, muscle tension, and the severity of the dysfunction.

Can poor posture contribute to jaw pain?

Absolutely. Forward head posture, rounded shoulders, and spinal misalignment can increase strain on the jaw and surrounding muscles. Correcting posture is often a key component of long-term TMJ relief.

Should I see a chiropractor or dentist for TMJ pain?

Both can play important roles. Dentists address bite and dental issues, while chiropractors focus on spinal alignment, joint mechanics, muscles, and nervous system function. Many patients benefit from a collaborative approach.

Can chiropractic help TMJ-related headaches?

Yes. TMJ dysfunction and neck misalignment are common contributors to tension headaches and migraines. Chiropractic care may reduce headache frequency and intensity by addressing the root cause.

Where can I find a chiropractor near me for TMJ pain?

If you are looking for a chiropractor near me or a chiropractor in Chili, NY who treats jaw and TMJ pain, Dr Sam Camarata and the team at Camarata Chiropractic & Wellness including Dr Brian and Dr Joe offer comprehensive evaluations and personalized care plans.

New Patient Scheduler Online! Click Here! Come Experience Jaw Pain Relief!


‹ Back

New Patients

Start your natural healing journey with a comprehensive new patient visit

Existing Patients

Continue your wellness path with convenient online scheduling options

SoftWave Patients

Experience Rochester's breakthrough pain relief & regenerative technology!

Contact Us

Get personalized guidance to find your perfect health solution.