Chiropractic Can Ease Jaw Pain Related to TMJ

Because injury to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is often rather painful, we do our best to help our Arlington, WA patients find relief as quickly and effectively as possible. In fact, Dr. Ernst will tell you that the medical research shows just how much chiropractic care can help ease pain in the TMJ.

For instance, one study published in Physiotherapy Theory and Practice included 15 people with temporomandibular disorders who were treated with neck adjustments, middle-back adjustments, and trigger point therapy via dry needling. Individuals were assessed prior to these therapies and at two weeks and two months post-treatment. The researchers reported positive outcomes such as reduced discomfort, greater jaw mobility, and lower impairment at both follow-ups.

Another research study carried out a review of almost 800 papers involving manual and manipulative therapy for conditions such as TMJ and revealed similar results. They concluded that there is a "fair...level of evidence" that chiropractic care can help ease symptoms associated with jaw pain and other upper extremity disorders.

This is great news since the causes of TMJ are largely unknown. While injury to the jaw area can cause pain symptoms, there are other factors to consider as well, such as grinding teeth, arthritis, and clenching of the jaw due to stress.

No matter what is making your jaw ache, call Dr. Ernst now and make an appointment to come into our Arlington, WA location. We'll do our best to help you smile pain-free!

References

• Gonzalez-Iglesias J et al. (2013, November). Mobilization with movement, thoracic spine manipulation, and dry needling for the management of temporomandibular disorder: a prospective case series. Physiotherapy Theory and Practice;29(8):586-95
• Brantingham J et al. (2013, March-April). Manipulative and multimodal therapy for upper extremity and temporomandibular disorders: a systematic review. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics;36(3):143-201
• Oral Care. WebMD. Retrieved from http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/temporomandibular-disorders-tmd on November 2, 2015