WEBVTT

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If you suffer from chronic headaches,

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they may be caused by a disorder

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of the temporal mandibular joint

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or the TMJ.

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These disorders,

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which are commonly known

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as TMD, can cause a variety of symptoms,

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including a locked, jaw

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popping or clicking

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sounds in the jaw joint,

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facial pain,

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neck pain, ear pain, and more.

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Frequent headaches

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are one of the most common

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symptoms of TMD.

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Because of the complex relationship

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between the jaw muscles

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and the facial nerves, problems

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in the jaw

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joint and muscles can result in headaches

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and other facial and neck pain.

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By taking a neuromuscular approach

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to your chronic headaches,

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your doctor can help to treat

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the underlying problem

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as well as the symptoms.

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When you visit your doctor,

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he or she will assess your symptoms

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and evaluate

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the possible causes of the problem.

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In many cases,

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chronic headaches are caused

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by bite

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misalignment, teeth

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grinding and clenching,

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or excessive stress in the TMJ.

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By striving

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to pinpoint the cause of your headaches,

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your doctor can ensure

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that you receive the proper treatment

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for your symptom. Based on your needs,

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there are a number of treatments

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available to relieve your headaches.

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Your doctor

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may recommend relaxing the jaw

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and facial muscles

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by practicing muscle

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relaxation exercises,

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or by using a Tens unit

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or transcutaneous

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electric nerve stimulation.

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If bruxism

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or teeth grinding and clenching

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plays a part in your headaches,

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your doctor may suggest an oral

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appliance or night guard

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that is worn to prevent

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grinding and clenching.

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If your doctor determines

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that your bite is misaligned,

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he or she may recommend dental procedures

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for orthodontics

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for an occlusal adjustment

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to correct the problem.

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Your doctor will formulate a treatment

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plan to meet your specific needs.

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If you would like more information

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about neuromuscular headaches

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and how this condition can be treated,

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please contact your doctor.