19/03/2025
Ménière's Disease
The Connection Between TMJ and Vertigo
The relationship between TMJ disorders and vertigo can be traced back to the anatomy and function of the jaw and ear. The temporomandibular joint is located close to the inner ear, which controls balance.
When the TMJ is impacted, it can affect the ear structures and cause vertigo. The inner ear contains tiny organs responsible for sensing movement and position. If these are disrupted, dizziness or vertigo can result.
Muscle tension around the jaw can also contribute to this problem. Stress or misalignment in the jaw can cause muscles to tighten, leading to inflammation and pressure on nearby nerves and structures, including those in the inner ear.
Such pressure can interfere with the vestibular system, which maintains balance, leading to vertigo symptoms. For those with TMJ disorders, vertigo often occurs with other symptoms like ear fullness or ringing.
Symptoms of TMJ-Induced Vertigo
TMJ-induced vertigo can manifest through several distinctive symptoms. It often begins with a sensation of dizziness or feeling off-balance, which might be accompanied by ear-related issues like a ringing sound, known as tinnitus.
Some people describe a fullness in the ear that mimics the sensation of being underwater. These ear symptoms occur because the TMJ is close to the inner ear, where balance is regulated.
Along with vertigo, many people experience headaches or facial pain, which can be intensified by jaw movement. This pain sometimes radiates to the neck and shoulders, making it challenging to identify the source without a thorough examination.
It's not uncommon for individuals to report nausea and visual disturbances during vertigo episodes, complicating their daily activities.
