How Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care Can Help TMJ Disorders: A Natural Approach
- drjaewonlee21
- Jan 5
- 3 min read
Relieve TMJ Pain Naturally with Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care

TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder) affects millions of people, causing jaw pain, headaches, neck tension, and difficulty chewing. While commonly linked to jaw-related issues, misalignments higher up in the spine, particularly in the upper cervical region, can play a significant role in the development and progression of TMJ symptoms.
At New York Upper Cervical Chiropractic in Great Neck, Long Island, we specialize in addressing these root causes through precise, non-invasive care. If you're seeking a natural and effective approach to TMJ relief, understanding how upper cervical chiropractic care can alleviate spinal misalignments that affect the nervous system and jaw function could be your first step toward healing.
What is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint is a complex hinge that allows you to open and close your mouth, chew, and speak. TMJ disorders occur when there is dysfunction or misalignment in this joint or its surrounding muscles. Common symptoms include:
Jaw pain or tenderness
Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
Difficulty chewing or biting
Headaches or migraines
Earaches or a sensation of fullness in the ears
Neck and shoulder pain
How Upper Cervical Care Helps with TMJ
Upper cervical chiropractic care focuses on the alignment of the top two vertebrae in the spine—the atlas (C1) and axis (C2)—which play a crucial role in the function of the nervous system and muscles connected to the TMJ. Misalignments in this area can lead to pain, dysfunction, and tension in the jaw, neck, and shoulders. Here’s how upper cervical chiropractic care can make a difference for those suffering from TMJ disorders:
Restoring Spinal Alignment: Misalignments in the upper cervical spine can create imbalances in the jaw, increasing strain on the TMJ. Gentle, targeted adjustments help restore proper alignment, reducing stress on the joint and improving bite alignment.
Improving Nerve Function: The upper cervical area is closely connected to the nervous system. When misaligned, it can interfere with communication between the brain and the muscles that control the jaw. Correcting misalignments ensures optimal nerve function, reducing pain and improving mobility.
Reducing Muscle Tension: TMJ pain often involves tight muscles in the jaw, neck, and shoulders. By realigning the upper cervical spine, chiropractic care helps reduce tension in these areas, promoting relaxation and healing.
Improving Posture: Misalignments in the neck and spine can affect posture, further impacting the jaw’s alignment and increasing TMJ discomfort. Aligning the upper cervical spine helps restore proper posture, reducing strain on the TMJ.
Non-Invasive Relief: Unlike medications or surgeries, upper cervical chiropractic care is a natural, safe, and effective method to address the root causes of TMJ disorders without side effects, offering lasting relief without the need for drugs or invasive procedures.
Why Choose New York Upper Cervical Chiropractic?
Upper cervical chiropractic care provides a specialized, targeted approach to treating TMJ. By addressing the root cause of misalignments in the upper spine, NYUCC can offer long-term relief.
Upper cervical care is especially effective because it focuses on the precise, gentle realignment of the C1 and C2 vertebrae. This method is tailored to each patient's unique spinal structure, ensuring that the treatment is both safe and effective.
Conclusion
TMJ disorders can significantly impact daily life, but effective, natural solutions are available. Upper cervical care at NYUCC offers a gentle and holistic approach to relieving TMJ pain by addressing the root causes of dysfunction. By restoring alignment, improving nerve function, and reducing muscle tension, this specialized care can help you achieve lasting relief.
If you’re tired of living with TMJ pain, New York Upper Cervical Chiropractic is here to guide you toward a healthier, pain-free life. Take the first step today by scheduling a consultation and discovering how upper cervical care can support your TMJ recovery. Dr. Jaewon Lee D.C.
New York Upper Cervical Chiropractic
(516) 969-3330
505 Northern Blvd, Set 205
Great Neck, New York 11021