Chiropractic Treatment for TMJ in Olympia, Washington
If you’ve been experiencing jaw pain, clicking, or tension, you’re not alone - and you may be experiencing something called TMJ disorder (or dysfunction). At Tanasse Chiropractic, we offer TMJ treatment in Olympia, Washington and the surrounding areas to help patients who are seeking relief from the frustrating symptoms TMJ dysfunction causes.
TMJ Treatment in Olympia, Washington
Let’s dive into what TMJ is, how chiropractic treatment makes a difference, and shine a spotlight on our very own Dr. Ryen - an expert in hands-on care, especially through a technique known as myofascial release!
What is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jawbone to your skull. It’s responsible for helping you chew, speak, yawn, and move your jaw in all directions. When this joint becomes inflamed, misaligned, or overused, it can lead to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), commonly referred to simply as TMJ.
Common symptoms of TMJ disorder include:
Jaw pain or tenderness
Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing your mouth
Headaches or earaches
Facial soreness or tension
Difficulty chewing
A “locked” jaw sensation
TMJ can be caused by a variety of factors including stress, teeth grinding (bruxism), injury, arthritis, or poor posture that affects jaw alignment.
Can Chiropractic Help with TMJ
Chiropractic care focuses on the alignment and function of the musculoskeletal system - including the neck, spine, and jaw. Since TMJ is often linked to tension, misalignment, and muscular dysfunction, chiropractic adjustments and soft tissue therapy can offer natural, non-invasive relief.
Our approach to TMJ treatment includes:
Evaluating spinal and jaw alignment
Gentle adjustments to the neck and upper spine
Myofascial release therapy to reduce muscle tightness
Postural assessments and at-home guidance
By treating the jaw and surrounding muscles as part of a connected system, we can relieve pressure and restore balance - helping you feel more like yourself again!
Meet Dr. Ryen: Your TMJ Expert in Olympia, Washington
Dr. Ryen brings training and a whole-body perspective to chiropractic care, especially when it comes to conditions like TMJ. Patients love her compassionate, knowledgeable approach and the way she takes time to explain each step of the treatment.
Her TMJ patients often express surprise at how much better their jaw feels after just a few visits, with one recent patient stating: “I haven’t dealt with any TMJ pain after just one session of myofascial release with Dr. Ryen!”
Whether the patient is experiencing dull, constant discomfort or sudden, sharp pain in the jaw, Dr. Ryen helps them uncover the root cause and builds a treatment plan that works for their unique body and needs.
Myofascial Release for TMJ: What It Is & Why It Works
One of the most effective tools we use to support TMJ treatment is myofascial release. This hands-on therapy focuses on the fascia—the connective tissue surrounding your muscles—to release tightness and restore motion.
In cases of TMJ disorder, muscles around the jaw (like the masseter and temporalis) can become tight and inflamed. Myofascial release helps to loosen these areas, improve blood flow, and reduce pain or restriction.
Watch this quick video below to see Dr. Ryen performing myofascial release with a real patient:
Many patients describe the experience as relieving, with reduced pain and better jaw mobility following. It’s especially helpful for those dealing with jaw clenching or tension from stress.
What to Expect at Your Chiropractic TMJ Appointment
If you’re considering chiropractic treatment for TMJ, here’s what you can expect:
Consultation & Assessment: Your chiropractor will evaluate your jaw function, posture, and spinal alignment.
Customized Care Plan: They will determine whether chiropractic adjustments, myofascial release, or a combination of treatments are right for you.
Ongoing Support: Then, they’ll track your progress and provide recommendations for home care to support long-term relief.
You don’t have to live with jaw pain. Our goal as chiropractors is to help you feel better - and empower you with the tools to stay that way. Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, consistent or occasional, chiropractic care may be the missing piece in your path to relief.
