Feeling dizzy lately? The feeling is incredibly disorienting. After just a few seconds most people are pleading for the room to stop spinning. We often incorrectly assume this is a function of our brain and that brain fog is responsible for this terrible feeling but it’s actually our inner ear. The inner ear isn’t alone either. If a person’s TMJ is dysfunctional, it can lead to inner ear dysfunction as well and disrupt their balance.
How Are They Connected?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the inner ear are more than just close in proximity. Their closeness in physical location makes them inextricably linked. If you plug your ear and open and close your mouth, for example, you’ll be able to feel your jaw joint.
The inner ear is made up of tiny, delicate structures that when disturbed are susceptible to decreased functionality.
Where Does Balance Come From?
Our sense of balance comes from balancing information from three places:
- The vestibular system in the inner ears
- Visual information
- Information from receptors in the muscles and joints
The TMJ’s Role in Imbalance
A dysfunctional temporomandibular joint is typically accompanied by inflammation. This inflammation can affect the inner ear because of the proximity between the TMJ and inner ear structures. Interference in the movement of endolymph in the semicircular canals from this inflammation is a primary cause of vertigo.
Another scenario that can explain a person’s diminished sense of balance as a result of the TMJ is its connection to the cervical spine. When the jaw joint has degenerated, it can cause the first vertebra to become misaligned. When this vertebra is misaligned, it can result in a forward head posture. The shift in resting head position can send conflicting signals between the eyes and ears.
Side Effects of Poor Balance
Contradicting signals between the inner ear, muscles, eyes, and joints can cause:
- Difficulty standing up
- Trouble concentrating
- Ringing in the ears
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of hearing
- Fever
Balance-Focused TMD Treatment in Fairfax, VA
Treating jaw dysfunction can help improve the symptoms of poor balance and vertigo by tackling the problem at its source. If you’re ready to reclaim your balance and chip away and vertigo, call our offices at 703-323-8200 to schedule a consultation.
