Macomb, IL is about an hour’s drive from Quincy, and patients dealing with TMJ-related jaw pain, clicking, or tension make that trip to see Dr. Justin Felsman at Adjustin Chiropractic. TMJ symptoms often trace back to more than just the jaw itself, and Dr. Felsman takes the time to look at the full picture before recommending care.
How Chiropractic Care Approaches TMJ
The temporomandibular joint doesn’t work in isolation. It’s closely tied to the muscles and alignment of your neck, which is why jaw pain often responds to more than just direct jaw treatment.
Looking at the Neck-Jaw Connection
Misalignment or tension in the cervical spine can directly affect how the jaw moves and functions. Dr. Felsman evaluates neck posture and alignment alongside the jaw itself, since addressing one without the other often leaves part of the problem untouched.
Soft Tissue Work for Jaw Tension
Techniques like Graston and Active Release Technique (ART) target tight, overactive muscles around the jaw and neck, including the masseter and temporalis muscles that frequently tighten with TMJ disorder. This soft tissue work is often paired with adjustments to address both the muscular and structural sides of the problem.
Why Macomb Residents Make the Trip to Quincy
Macomb’s most well-known feature, Western Illinois University, plays a real role in why TMJ symptoms show up so often in the area.
A College Town Under Stress
Academic pressure, irregular sleep schedules, and heavy workloads are common contributors to jaw clenching and teeth grinding, especially around exams and deadlines. Over time, that habitual tension strains the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, which is exactly the kind of pattern Dr. Felsman looks for during an evaluation.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
Your first visit includes a thorough history and evaluation of your jaw, neck, and posture, not just a quick look at where it hurts. From there, Dr. Felsman explains what he’s found and builds a plan around your specific symptoms.
Symptoms Worth Getting Evaluated
- Persistent jaw pain or soreness
- Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing your mouth
- Difficulty opening your mouth fully
- Headaches or ear pain tied to jaw tension
- Neck pain or stiffness alongside jaw symptoms
Learn more about Dr. Felsman’s background and approach to care before scheduling your first visit.
Schedule Your Visit
If you’re in Macomb and dealing with jaw pain, clicking, or tension that hasn’t improved on its own, it’s worth getting evaluated.
Call (217) 242-0420 or schedule online to get started.
